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Names in the frame

Image: Steve McClaren (left) Chris Hughton and Sam Allardyce (right) are all contenders for the West Ham job

We look at the candidates looking to succeed Avram Grant as the next manager of West Ham.

We look at the candidates looking to succeed Grant at West Ham

West Ham's move to dismiss Avram Grant following their relegation to the npower Championship creates a vacancy which is likely to interest a host of managers. Sky Bet initially installed former Newcastle boss Chris Hughton as 5/1 favourite while former Hammer Paulo di Canio and ex-Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce are available at 11/2. Now Steve McClaren has moved in the betting to 7/4 favourite Here we look at come of the likely candidates for the hot-seat at Upton Park.

GUS POYET

The Uruguayan has been highly praised for leading Brighton to the League One title and has Championship-level experience from his time as assistant to Dennis Wise at Leeds. However, even if West Ham were to show interest, Poyet may consider Brighton, in their new stadium, to be on a par with the London side now. Sky Bet odds: 12/1

SLAVEN BILIC

Hugely popular during the 1996/97 season he spent playing at Upton Park, Bilic is now coach of the Croatia national team and has been linked with a return to West Ham previously. May be unwilling to drop his duty to his country during their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign. Sky Bet odds: 7/1

ROBERTO DI MATTEO

The Italian has been out of management since leaving West Brom as they faltered after a bright start to the Premier League season. Did well to lead the Baggies to promotion though, and that is all West Ham are interested in next season. Sky Bet odds: 6/1

CHRIS HUGHTON

Similar to Di Matteo in that he led Newcastle to promotion before being discarded as the team hit a rocky patch in the Premier League. Linked with various jobs since leaving St James' Park, and has a link with West Ham having played two seasons for the club in the early 1990s. Sky Bet odds: 5/1

PAOLO DI CANIO

Appointing Hammers legend Di Canio might be a popular choice, but it would unquestionably be risky given he possesses no experience as a manager. Touted this week as a possible contender to be Swindon's new boss. Sky Bet odds: 11/2

SAM ALLARDYCE

Sacked by Blackburn's new owners in December when they bizarrely decided Steve Kean was a better bet to lead the team in the Premier League, Allardyce boasts great experience and has achieved considerable success on a limited budget. Sky Bet odds: 11/2

STEVE McCLAREN

Former England boss McClaren was ditched by German giants Wolfsburg this season, after a successful spell in Holland with FC Twente. Rebuilding his reputation after a torrid spell in charge of the national team, a return to England with likely Championship promotion contenders may hold plenty of appeal. Sky Bet odds: 7/4

ALAN SHEARER

Revealed this weekend he is keen to get back into the game, following his short and unsuccessful stint with Newcastle. Former England captain Shearer has plenty to prove as a manager so seems unlikely to be handed a Premier League job initially, but West Ham could be ideal for him. Sky Bet odds: 50/1 Who do you think should succeed Avram Grant at West Ham? Let us know using the form below.

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