Portsmouth’s Championship rivals consider in-demand boss as managerial market takes fresh twist
Pompey boss John Mousinho’s future has been under the spotlight this summer, but there is plenty of managerial talk currently doing the rounds across the Championship.
John Mousinho’s future has been under the spotlight during the close season as interest in the Pompey boss grew.
Bristol City were early admirers in the 40-year-old, who was initially a ‘leading contender’ for the Ashton Gate vacancy, but turned their managerial search elsewhere.
The News also revealed interest from Stoke City over Mousinho as they weighed up Mark Robins’ future.
The Potters head coach was under scrutiny earlier this summer following a disappointing Championship run-in, but now looks set to remain in the bet365 Stadium hot-seat.
While there’s more clarity over Mousinho’s future, the managerial market across the division continues to twist and turn.
Blackburn Rovers consider Dave Challinor
Dave Challinor looks set to join Blackburn Rovers, according to national reports.
The Sun have revealed the 50-year-old is expected to be the man chosen to replace Michael O’Neill, who opted against extending his stay at Ewood Park.
Challinor is also on the hunt for a fresh start after departing Stockport County last week.
The ex-Hartlepool boss, who was the fifth-longest serving manager in English football, parted ways with the Hatters after suffering a 4-1 defeat to Bolton Wanderers in the League One play-off final last month.
It is believed the in-demand head coach is reportedly under consideration for the Lancashire vacancy after snubbing League Two outfit Salford City.
The Ammies were looking to launch an ambitious move to land Challinor, whose preference is a Championship move, following Karl Robinson’s departure earlier this week.
Blackburn, of course, finished 20th in the second-tier last term - three points behind Pompey.
Watford manager hunt nears climax
Watford are continuing their search for Edward Still’s successor, with a new name now appearing at the front of the queue.
World-renowned transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has claimed their managerial hunt is on the brink of coming to a conclusion, however.
The fresh report revealed the Hornets are closing in on the appointment of Empoli boss Alessio Dionisi, who is set to pen a two-year deal at Vicarage Road.
The Italian is poised to become the 24th manager under Gino Pozzo’s 14-year ownership at Watford, with the Serie A side expected to give the green light to the move.
The Hornets sacked Still after the season finale having won just three of his 14 matches in charge.