Forest look to Karanka after firing Warburton

AitOR KARANKA has emerged as a leading contender to replace Mark Warburton, who was yesterday sacked as Nottingham Forest manager following the 1-0 home defeat by Sunderland. the club’s Greek ownership acted with the club 10 points adrift of the play-off places.

Sportsmail understands owner Evangelos Marinakis wanted to challenge for promotion this season and Warburton was aware he was under pressure ever since the 4-2 loss to ipswich on December 2. he earned a stay of execution by beating Bolton 3-2 in their next game, but Forest lost three and drew one of the following four fixtures to prompt Marinakis into action. Defeat to Chris Coleman’s strugglers at the City Ground was the final straw. Marinakis and chief executive ioannis Vrentzos have paid close attention to Warburton’s frequently changed team selections and were aware of a number of disillusioned players. Warburton was juggling with a bloated squad and wanted to trim numbers in January, but is believed to have had major disagreements with several first-team members, leading to concern among the hierarchy. the writing appeared on the wall after sporting director Frank McParland left before the weekend and Warburton was informed of the decision on Sunday morning. Warburton and McParland have a close relationship and came to Forest almost simultaneously in March. McParland left in acrimonious circumstances having had his role at the club limited, with Vrentzos taking a more active role in the search for potential signings. it is understood Forest were underwhelmed by the summer’s recruitment and the targets drawn up for January. Forest will now search for a 10th permanent manager in seven years, with Karanka ranking highly in considerations having led Middlesbrough to promotion previously. it is believed initial discussions have taken place, but it remains to be seen whether the Spaniard wishes to take up the reins. Barnsley manager Paul heckingbottom also has admirers at the club.