BLACK Leopards have suspended coach Ian Palmer for disciplinary reasons.

Abel Makhubele has been appointed caretaker coach ahead of tonight's Absa Premiership match against Bloemfontein Celtic.

But sources at Leopards revealed to Sowetan yesterday that former captain Duncan "King" Lechesa is favourite to take over the coaching job.

"I can confirm Ian has been suspended. Abel will be in charge of the coaching staff in the game against Celtic," said a source at Leopards who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Sowetan has learnt that Leopards' top brass were not impressed with the behaviour of Palmer after he kicked a cooler bag in the dressing-room after the loss to Free State Stars last Saturday. They are also unhappy with his team selection policy.

Palmer had a meeting with chairman David Thidiela and other bosses later in the evening, which ended in a deadlock.

"Ian surprised us by coming late to Sunday's training session," added the source. "Two weeks ago, there was a war of words between Ian and team manager Sam Khaphathe on matters relating to discipline of players, who were not wearing uniform."

Leopards bagged only one point out of a possible nine in their last three games after losing 2-1 and 1-0 to Free State Stars and Mamelodi Sundowns respectively.

In the third game, the Limpopo outfit played to a 1-1 draw against AmaZulu. Their last win was on November 24 when they beat University of Pretoria 2-1 on the road.

Palmer could not be reached for comment yesterday, as was Thidiela.

Celtic and Leopards meet at Free State Stadium at 7.30pm tonight.