By Andy Baggott
September 21 2006

With Kevin Blackwell barely out of the exit door, the list of names to replace him seems to grow by the minute. With a Chairman like Bates who has such a long history in the game, it would be highly suprising if he didn’t have an inclination of who the new man will be. So who are the runners and riders?

The man most Leeds fans want, and the bookies top tip, is Alan Curbishly. He has been out of work for several months, and was not expected to step back into football until next month. Recently distanced himself from the WBA job, but apparently in the frame-wages may be a problem, as may a step down from the Premiership. Bates would have to convince him about ambition, as well as back him in the transfer market.

Dennis Wise is another strongly fancied. Wise has done well at Millwall and Swindon, but the ex-Chelsea player is far from popular with the Leeds fans, and would have to get instant results if the crowd were to get fully behind him. Stories say he is Bates’ number one choice, but he is not interested…

Claudio Ranieri is another in the frame. Again, strong Chelsea links, and has been seen at games this season. ‘The Tinkerman’ has a good pedigree, but didn’t do so well in his last job with Valencia.

Glen Hoddle is out of work, and would therefore be a cheaper option. Another with a Chelsea tie in. Hoddle hasn’t really been a success in club management, recently loosing his job at Wolves.

David O’Leary is also available, but, despite still living in the area, would be a major surprise if he were to return

John Carver is currently assistant manager, and could take up the job if money really is as bad as it would seem. Turned down the chance to manage Carlise, and may be regretting that now, as a new manager would probably let him go. Could get the job, but no experience.

Kevin Keegan is being mentioned in some quarters. Keegan has a reputation of playing great attractive football, but also as walking out when the going gets tough. Would need to be backed with cash.

Mike Newell is in charge of Luton and developing a good name for himself. Might fancy the challenge of managing a sleeping giant like Leeds, but compensation packages and lack of real experience may put Bates off.

Micky Adams, is the ex Leeds full back managing Coventry. Has a good record with a lot of clubs, and is slowly turning Coventry around. Again, compensation could rule him out, as well as him happy at Coventry.

Other names in the hat include old boy Mcallister, Joe Royle, Dave Penny and Bryan Robson.

An decision needs to be made sooner rather than later, but Bates will be acutely aware that sacking Blackwell was the easy bit, appointing his replacement is where the hard work begins.

Finally, I would, like to place on record my thanks to Blackwell. He did a good job in very difficult circumstances, but once he lost the crowd, he was always up against it. The poor showing in the Play Off Final was a major turning point, and he needed a good start to the season. Despite some improved performances, the results didn’t come, and a parting of the ways was inevitable – hopefully his replacement will be able to take us that extra yard.

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