Manager Merry-Go-Round

According to reports in the Guardian, Chelsea are optimistic they can land Guus Hiddink, and as manager, rather than director of football. If Turkey lose to Belgium in Brussels next Friday, qualification hopes for Euro 2012 will look bleak. The national federation’s desire to hold Hiddink to his contract would not be as strong, which is when Chelsea could act. The veteran Dutch coach has been cut to 5/2 favourite for the post.

On the drift is early favourite Marco Van Basten, out to 7/2. His lack of managerial experience at club level could count against him. Especially in a summer of upheaval at Stamford Bridge, which could see the departure of several big name players.

Over in east London the search for a new manager continues at Upton Park. Cardiff boss Dave Jones is now a clear 6/4 favourite for the role as his future in Wales looks uncertain. Despite consecutive failures to gain promotion, he is seen as a manager who can get West Ham straight back to the Premier League. There is little betting interest anywhere else, with early favourite Chris Hughton now 4/1 to land the job.