There is plenty happening across the Championship as clubs continue to shape their squads and prepare for the new season, with managerial moves, transfer interest and possible departures all on the agenda.
Surprise Favourite Emerges For Burnley Job
Burnley’s search for a new manager has now moved beyond the two-month mark, with a surprise name emerging at the top of the market.
Former Monaco boss Sebastien Pocognoli has seen his odds shorten significantly for the Turf Moor vacancy, with the Belgian now listed as short as 1/2 with one bookmaker. The Clarets have been without a permanent manager since Scott Parker left by mutual consent at the end of April, and first-team coach Mike Jackson remains in interim charge.
The players returned for pre-season training on Monday and are due to head to the United States next Tuesday for their pre-season tour. As things stand, that could happen without a permanent appointment having been made.
Craig Bellamy had appeared likely to replace Parker, only to make a late decision to stay with Wales. Rob Edwards is also reported to have turned down an approach, while Steve Cooper is not thought to be interested in returning to management this summer.
Pocognoli, 38, played for West Brom during his playing career and left Monaco at the start of June after eight months in charge. Before that, he had impressed at Union SG, guiding the Belgian club to their first league title in 90 years during his debut season as manager.
Oddschecker spokesman Chris Rogers told the Burnley Express:
“Sebastien Pocognoli’s odds to take over at Burnley have tumbled from 8/1 into 1/3 since yesterday with the Belgian set to take charge for the upcoming Championship campaign.
“After a brief spell as Monaco manager, Pocognoli is a free agent and received the backing of 76% of punters over the last 24 hours to take the reins at Turf Moor.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has also moved in the betting, with the former Manchester United manager now listed at 8/1 alongside Ange Postecoglou and Robin van Persie.
Comments Welcome!