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We continue our look at the favourites for Stoke City manager…
3) MICHAEL O’NEILL
Michael O’Neill is the current manager of national team Northern Ireland, where he is also impressing many after he guided them to qualification for their first ever European Championship, Euro 2016.
It was the first time in 30 years that Northern Ireland had qualified for a major tournament where he led the side to the second round, losing narrowly to Wales but recorded a surprise victory over Ukraine in the group stages.
In January 2018, O’Neill turned down an offer to become manager of Scotland following discussions with the Scottish Football Association.
His side currently sit 3rd in Group C after six games of the Euro 2020 qualifiers, giving Holland and Germany a real challenge.
O”Neill has previously managed Shamrock Rovers and Brechin City. He also is a former footballer for Coleraine, Newcastle United, Dundee United, Hibernian, Coventry City, Aberdeen, Reading, Wigan Athletic, St Johnstone, Portland Timbers, Clydebank, Glentoran and Ayr United.
Current odds on Sky Bet: 9/1
2) CHRIS HUGHTON
Chris Hughton had his contract terminated by Brighton & Hove Albion – the team he won came Championship runners up with in 2017 – on the 13th May despite avoiding the drop from the Premier League.
However he won just three of their last 23 league games and none of their final nine.
He has also managed Norwich City, Birmingham City and Newcastle United (won the Championship with in 2010).
In October 2019, Hughton turned down replacing Nathan Jones as manager of Stoke.
He also said: “I do want to get back in at the highest level that I can but I’m using my time out well and very much making the most of it.
“I’m in the fortunate position, I’m not a first time manager or second time manager that is worried about where the next job is coming from and it’s a very precarious profession that we’re in.
“So, I’m all through all of that. I supposed I would be seen as a more experienced manager now, so I think that takes a little bit of pressure off.”
Current odds on Sky Bet: 5/1
1) ALEX NEIL
Reports suggest that the Potters have approached North End about talking to gaffer Alex Neil after making an impressive start to the season.
Stoke would have to pay up although it seems as though there is a release fee, or similar, in his contract which could take things out of Preston’s hands.
West Brom were keen on him but a reason as to why he didn’t go with them was because his family are settled and don’t want to move.
Personally we couldn’t see why he would leave for a club in the relegation zone unless they offer him big money, which would also be a surprise considering their position and downfall.
Current odds on Sky Bet: 1/4
Who do you want as the new manager?
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