Following a run of 12 matches without a victory, Paul Jewell and Ipswich Town parted company by mutual consent this afternoon.
The 48-year-old's future at Portman Road had been the subject of much speculation in recent months and as a result a number of managers have been linked with the job for some time.
Now that it has officially become available, Sports Mole has drawn up a list of the five leading contenders to fill the vacancy.
Alan Curbishley
For 54-year-old Curbishley it has been a case of always the bridesmaid and never bride in recent years. Since leaving West Ham United in 2008, the Londoner has failed to find another job in management despite several interviews. Having previously guided Charlton Athletic to the Premier League, Curbishley's knack of getting clubs promoted on a low budget could appeal to the Ipswich board.
Odds: 2/1
Chris Hutchings
Assistant manager Hutchings has previously taken over from Jewell at Bradford City and Wigan Athletic. Although it would be fair to say that neither of those stints as a number one went to plan, Hutchings is still highly-regarded within the game. He has a knowledge of the current Ipswich squad, which may work in his favour if he wants the job on a permanent basis. The 55-year-old has also been placed in interim charge.
Odds: 9/1
Paul Ince
Former Manchester United, Liverpool and England midfielder Ince has struggled to land a management role since he left Notts County in 2011. Having initially impressed his first job with Macclesfield Town in 2006, the 45-year-old has struggled to replicate that success at MK Dons, Blackburn Rovers and County. Nevertheless, someone with as high a profile as Ince may be able to lure some big names to the Suffolk-based club.
Odds: 10/1
Harry Redknapp
There were big rumours doing the rounds earlier this season that Redknapp had been lined up to replace Jewell. However, the change never materialised and the former Tottenham Hotspur boss took on an advisory role with Bournemouth. Jewell's exit has reignited the speculation, with Redknapp known to be keen on a return to the management game. Whether he would be willing to drop down to the Championship remains to be seen.
Odds: 10/1
Steve Davies
Birmingham-born Davies has fast become a well-respected Football League manager since he took over Crewe Alexandra in 2011. Last season he guided the Railwaymen to promotion from League Two with his team playing a passing style. Although his appointment would be seen as a gamble when considering his lack of experience, he has the potential to get Ipswich playing the style of football that their supporters have missed under the likes of Jewell and Roy Keane.
Odds: 12/1
Liam Apicella
