If the stories that rovers are about to ask permission to speak to Dowie are true, then surely that means that he is the first choice. That's what happened with Kidd, we asked permission, got it and offered him the job. This all seems to me, if true, to rule out a move for Hughes.

Out of interest - exactly how did he do well at Oldham? Not saying he didn't, just asking.

Maybe we're all getting a bit sidelined with this mark Hughes business. the LET did say that the people the board had wanted to apply, had. Then it went on to say that Strachan had applied.

A workmate of Baz, has said he has had a text from rovers, to say that Mark Hughes has been appointed Manager. It might be a wind-up, don't know.

I'd have Mike England too, or Matt Woods, but I respect those who would argue the case for Colin Hendry. No thanks Sherwood, Brownie. I remember Mike England playing right half as an 18 year old, what a fantastic player. It will be difficult to get him chosen though, the vast majority haven't seen or heard anything about him. IMO, the best of the lot. 92er - I'll leave the case for forbes and Cowell up to you.

True bob, very true. BTW, don't forget Portsmouth.

Hmmm, got to agree with Berg/Newton comments - especially in a poll for the right back. Absolutely no comparison. Still - as long as the best man wins, we might finish up with something worthwhile. As for rigging the vote - Theno, REALLY! If we did what you suggest, Jim'll elect the entire team on his own.

BTW, what's a very focussed short list?

I'm not 100% sure about Hughes. It's a totally different job managing an international side, than it is a club side. Just look at Peter Taylor with the under 21s. Hopeless as a club manager. Take the international experience away from Hughes and what is left? A popular guy, who maybe could attract players with his reputation. As for his coaching, man management or player selection/tactical qualities - totally unproven. Thing is, name any candidate and there's a reason why we shouldn't choose him. I do think though, that if we get it wrong, it could cost us dearly this season.

Amoruso's suspended, Gally, Thomo and Todd all out injured.

I feel a bit better after reading this

No disrespect LDRover, but not absolutely set in stone, then?

Can someone remind me again - how do we know three current prem managers have applied for the job?

From today's telegraph: In total, he has taken charge of 70 first team games, winning 27 and losing 20.

There's a man I wouldn't mind. If he's good enough for Fergie, he's good enough for me.

Or you can read similar info in the media watch forum.

John Brown?

Very interesting point Jim Royle. I would say yes. Seeing as they own the club, I suppose in theory, they could make the appointment entirely on their own. I reckon though, that they will only need to ratify any new managerial appointment. I stand to be corrected though. Philipl?

Sorry philipl, we are definately not allowed to cut and paste entire articles. We have had many complaints in the past from offended parties. The agreed way is to allow the cut and pasting of a small section of the article and then either put a credit to the article source, or preferably put in a link. As for the times, looks like you'll have to pay. Sorry.

It says he contacted a player. I suspect it to be Barry Ferguson Yes, it did say that. I suspect he was sounding out the clubs attitude towards him, through the player. i.e. asking the player to find out whether it was worth him applying?

Also, on that telegraph article, if Advocaat enquired and then applied, he must have had some encouragement from the board. He could be the man.

Everyone the board were hoping would apply, have done. Does that suggest hughes WONT be the man? I couldn't see him applying for the job. plus, Saunders wanted the managers job. L.E.T.

merged the Jansen topic with the preview.

That article suggests that one of the applicants fits the bill.

" A number of high quality candidates have thrown their hats into the ring and we are now in a position to draw up a short list with a view to making an early appointment if possible" - JW, on the official site. Full article Here