John Carver was appointed caretaker-manager last week and will be working with Sam Ellis and skipper Chris Morgan following the departure of Gary Speed, who has taken charge of the Wales national team.

A club statement read: "As the process of preparing the shortlist of candidates is still ongoing, John Carver, currently acting in a caretaker role, will remain in charge of team affairs at least until early in the new year.

"The club regards the decision concerning an appointment to be of such crucial importance that it will not be made in haste and will continue to consider the merits of all potential candidates.

"As a result no further comment will be made until a decision is reached."

Doncaster boss Sean O'Driscoll, Port Vale's Micky Adams and former midfielder Paul Peschisolido, now boss at Burton, have all been linked with the vacancy.

BOURNEMOUTH chairman Eddie Mitchell is determined to keep hold of manager Eddie Howe.

The 33-year-old, who has guided the Cherries into a League One play-off place, has been linked with a host of managerless clubs, but Mitchell is keen to prevent Howe from leaving Dean Court.

"People have phoned me and commented on various vacancies and Sheffield United was one of them," Mitchell told the Daily Echo.

"But, as far as I'm concerned, Eddie is contracted to us and I hope he's enjoying his time here. I'm sure he will see out his contract and maybe further. Unless we are approached, it is not for us to presume."

Gordon Taylor, chief executive of the Professional Footballers' Association, hopes PLYMOUTH can resolve their financial situation sooner rather than later.

The Pilgrims financial crisis has left them having to rely on a loan from the PFA to enable them to pay their players' wages for November.

"We are keeping very much in close touch with the club with regards to financial matters," Taylor told the Plymouth Herald Express.

"They are looking to get deals done with the Revenue and new income sources. Meanwhile, we are looking to assist the club with regards to financial help."

BRADFORD defender Zesh Rehman has quit Valley Parade in order to join Thailand Premier League champions Muangthong United.

Rehman had six months to run on his City contract but, following a fall out with manager Peter Taylor, the 27-year-old has been allowed to leave on a free transfer.

SOUTHEND have been boosted by the news that defender Bilel Mohsni does not require surgery on the ankle he injured during the 2-0 win over CHELTENHAM.