Henk ten Cate, another contender to succeed Mark Hughes, has accepted the coach's position at Greek side Panathinaikos leaving the way open for Allardyce, the bookies favourite, and fans' favourite Ince.

The former England midfielder, who took MK Dons to the League Two title, has ruled himself out of a move to Leicester, whose chairman Milan Mandaric made an official approach last week.

A statement released by MK Dons read: "Following discussions between the chairman and Paul Ince, it has been decided that Paul will not be pursuing the opportunity at Leicester City.

"Given Paul's success in his emerging managerial career, it can come as no surprise that speculation continues to see his name linked with a number of managerial vacancies.

"In spite of this, as we look forward to the forthcoming League One season, the club remains committed to keeping the hottest young manager in English football."

Ten Cate, the 53-year-old sacked as an assistant coach with Chelsea, had been seen as a leading contender for the Blackburn job.

Alan Shearer has already turned down an offer to be considered for the Rovers post while a dark horse is former Danish international Michael Laudrup.

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