The contenders
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Paul Ince's exit from Blackburn leaves the Premier League strugglers searching for a new manager as they look to climb out of the relegation zone. We take a look at the possible contenders to replace the former England midfielder:
GRAEME SOUNESS
The abrasive Scot has emerged as the bookmakers' early favourite to return to the club he managed with some success from 2000 until leaving to take over at Newcastle in 2004. Souness took Rovers back to the top flight in his first year in charge and went on to win the League Cup in 2002.
SAM ALLARDYCE
The 54-year-old has not worked since his ill-fated spell at Newcastle ended in January after just over seven months. Allardyce, though, had great success during eight years at Bolton -- leading them to the top flight and fighting off relegation before securing UEFA Cup qualification.
ALAN CURBISHLEY
The 51-year-old is available after resigning from West Ham in September, feeling undermined by the club's board in transfer dealings. After joining the Hammers in December 2006, he led them to a miraculous escape from relegation and took them to 10th place the following season.
STEVE BRUCE
Bruce is often linked to vacancies away from the JJB Stadium where he has been Wigan's incumbent since November 2007. The 47-year-old spent six seasons at Birmingham, leading them to two promotions. Last season saw him guide Wigan to safety in the Premier League.
DAVID O'LEARY
The Dubliner has not worked in football management since his departure from Aston Villa in summer 2006. O'Leary led a young Leeds side to the Champions League semi-final but eventually moved to the midlands, where the former Arsenal and Republic of Ireland defender stayed until leaving shortly before then owner Doug Ellis sold the club to American Randy Lerner.
