And now the speculation starts...

Last updated : 21 April 2006 By Neil Andrews
Paul Hart
Hart: Hot favourite
With David Tuttle barely out of the door, speculation is already rife as to who will replace him.

Fulham coach and former Watford boss Ray Lewington and ex-Nottingham Forest manager Paul Hart have emerged as the front runners for the position while Teddy Sheringham surprised many by declaring his interest yesterday afternoon.

Hart's agent, Dan Fletcher, told Sky Sports that his client would be "very interested" in the role and revealed that he'd already had talks with the club.

"Paul's spoken to Millwall," said Fletcher. "They seem very interested in him and he's certainly very interested in them. So far, that's as far as it goes."

Lewington, meanwhile, was linked with the club before Tuttle had even departed and is said to be keen on a return to management and former Lions coach Steve Gritt is also said to be interested.

Perhaps most surprisingly of all is the speculation surrounding a possible return to The Den of Teddy Sheringham. The West Ham United striker didn't rule out the possibility during an interview with Sky Sports ahead of this weekend's FA Cup Semi-Final.

"Obviously, it's a club that I hold close to my heart," said Judas. "Having spent a long time there as a youngster, you dont stop being a fan, and as I've said before, it would be nice to come back one day.

"I am waiting by the phone, if the club wants to speak to me, I'll be happy to."

Other candidates in the frame include former boss Mick McCarthy - who still has a house in the area, Notts County manager Gudjon Thordarson, Ian Holloway and Ray Wilkins.