Bristol Rovers parted company with Joey Barton on Thursday afternoon and already there's talk as to who could replace him.
The 41-year-old's near three-year tenure came to an end after a 1-1 draw with Stevenage on Tuesday, and now the board have a big decision on their hands as to what direction they go in next. Barton's right-hand man Andy Mangan has been placed in temporary charge and given he's already taken on the post before then this is a good opportunity for him to audition for the role should he want it.
As soon as the betting markets opened, Karl Robinson was the favourite for the post, however he has drifted massively. He may be holding out for a Championship job despite being sacked by Oxford United earlier this year. He rejected Fleetwood Town in September as well as Reading, and there was reports earlier this week that he turned down the chance to discuss taking over at League Two promotion hopefuls Bradford City.
Interestingly, Cameron Toshack was a name that emerged from a report yesterday, and that he was in contention for the job. It is understood that those reports are wide of the mark, and understandably his name does not feature in the long list of candidates in the betting markets. BetVictor are offering odds for the next permanent Bristol Rovers manager and there’s some interesting candidates, which include a former Bristol City and Charlton Athletic boss. Another name managed Cardiff City and Millwall, and then the other was in charge of Blackpool and Crystal Palace.
Flick through to see who is now the front-runner for the role after some considerable market changes. Joey Barton’s time is over at the club, and having assessed the free agent market of managers do any of these interest you? Let us know in the comments which names are of interest to you and if you think they’re realistic.
*Odds correct at the time of publication. (10:24 on Friday, October 27).
1. Dean Smith, Craig Hignett, Chris Hughton, Brian Barry-Murphy, Andy Woodman, Aidy Boothroyd and Adam Hinshelwood.
33/1 Photo: Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
2. Mark Bonner, Luke Garrard, Kevin Phillips, Kevin Muscat, Keith Curle, Ian Dawes, Frank Lampard, Derek McInness and Damien Duff.
33/1 Photo: James Chance/Getty Images
3. Pete Wild, Paul Tisdale, Paul Hartley, Neil Redfearn, Nathan Rooney, Mick McCarthy, Michael Beale and Mark Jackson.
33/1 Photo: Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)
4. Steve Bruce, Stephen Bradley, Sol Campbell, Shaun Derry, Scott Brown, Sam Allardyce, , Robbie Neilson and Phil Parkinson.
33/1 Photo: Tony Marshall/Getty Images