Flitcrofts lead race for job

Brothers Garry and David Flitcroft top the list of names linked with the managerial vacancy at League One strugglers Rochdale.

David Flitcroft would prove to be a popular choice with fans having served as assistant under previous boss Keith Hill at Spotland, who he followed to South Yorkshire when Championship outfit Barnsley came calling in the summer. Elder sibling Garry is reportedly the favourite to replace Steve Eyre, who was sacked after six months in charge by Rochdale chairman Chris Dunphy on Monday. The 39-year-old former Manchester City and Blackburn midfield has impressed as manager of non-league Chorley, guiding them to promotion to the Evo-Stik Premier where they currently lie fourth, although some bookmakers list him as the most likely replacement for Phil Brown at Preston. Current Dale caretaker boss Chris Beech would appear to be in with a good chance of securing the position on a permanent basis given some vocal support offered by Dunphy earlier this week although, if a more experienced hand is required, former Rotherham manager Ronnie Moore is also believed to be in the frame. Dietmar Hamman and Paul Ince are the star names in the running having both previously worked in the north west, although Rochdale's modest budget may act as a sticking point.