With Newcastle United suffering their fourth consecutive defeat in the Carling Cup last night, Terry Venables has emerged as a surprise frontrunner for the vacant manager's job at St James' Park.
The Magpies were beaten 2-1 by Tottenham Hotspur in front of their lowest home crowd since 1992, deepening the gloom around Newcastle as owner Mike Ashley continues to seek a buyer for the club.
Odds on Venables being named as Kevin Keegan's successor have been cut from 16/1 to 3/1 at William Hill, while Gus Poyet is a 6/1 bet.
Although no formal approach has yet been made by Newcastle, Venables told the Sun that he has met officials from the club, with further negotiations scheduled for today.
The former Barcelona and England manager held talks with Newcastle directors Dennis Wise and Tony Jimenez in London yesterday and has been asked to consider taking charge of the beleaguered club on a temporary basis.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian consortium being linked with a takeover at St James' Park is expected to make an announcement within the next 48 hours.
With Newcastle United suffering their fourth consecutive defeat in the Carling Cup last night, Terry Venables has emerged as a surprise frontrunner for the vacant manager's job at St James' Park.