PAUL JEWELL

The former Bradford and Sheffield Wednesday boss guided Wigan to the Premier League in 2005 - and kept them there. His latest spell in charge of Derby was less successful, however, as the Rams were relegated in 2008 with a record low of 11 points.

DARREN FERGUSON

One of the most highly-rated young managers in the game, Ferguson took Peterborough from Coca-Cola League Two to the Championship in two seasons before leaving the club in November. Has never managed in the Premier League, though.

MARK HUGHES

Available after being sacked by Manchester City earlier this month, Hughes excelled at Bolton's Lancashire rivals Blackburn. Remains to be seen whether he would fancy taking on a relegation fight after battling at the top end of the table with City.

ALAN CURBISHLEY

Has been out of the game since leaving West Ham in September 2008. He worked wonders in a 15-year spell in charge of Charlton, who have gone from the Premier League to League One since he left in 2006.

GARETH SOUTHGATE

Sacked as manager of Middlesbrough following three years in charge in October, despite them lying just one point off top spot in the Championship. Was unable to save Boro from relegation last term, though, as they finished second bottom.

SAM ALLARDYCE

Hugely popular with Bolton fans following his successful eight-year spell in charge between 1999 and 2007 - in which Wanderers won promotion to the Premier League, reached the 2004 Carling Cup final and qualified for the UEFA Cup - before leaving for an ill-fated half-a-season with Newcastle. Now at Blackburn, would he fancy a fairytale return?