Bookmakers make Allardyce, who has been out of work since being sacked by the Magpies in January, odds-on amid suggestions he has already been in touch with Rovers chiefs about the vacant post.

Former England boss Steve McClaren and ex-Blackburn striker Alan Shearer also appear to be in the running while an intriguing choice could be Paul Ince, who has done sterling work with Macclesfield and Milton Keynes Dons.

Rovers chairman John Williams will make stability the most crucial aspect of his search for a successor to Hughes, who led the club to three consecutive top-10 finishes and a place in the UEFA Cup during his spell at Ewood Park.

Williams said: "We have enjoyed eight years of success and stability with Graeme Souness and Mark and now it is important that we build on our strengths.

"We must make sure it is three successful appointments in a row."

Williams, who allowed Hughes to open talks with City officials last week, paid tribute to the Welshman who brought big names like Benni McCarthy and David Bentley to the club.

But it was his success in the transfer market with the likes of Roque Santa Cruz, Chris Samba and Ryan Nelsen that marked Hughes out as one of the brightest young managerial talents in the British game today.

In a statement on Rovers' website, www.rovers.co.uk , Williams added: "We have enjoyed a first-class, mutually beneficial relationship with Mark.

"He leaves the club in a strong position with three consecutive top-10 finishes and an excellent squad of players.

"In turn, we have helped Mark to establish himself as one of the most sought-after young British managers in the business, having previously had no club management experience.

"We wish him well. We would have liked him to stay on, but he made it clear he wanted a fresh challenge. Now our focus switches to the search for a successor."

Already there are suggestions Hughes could raid his old club for the likes of Bentley and Santa Cruz and his successor will have his work cut out persuading them to stay.