Cats face a critical spell... here is how things stand
ous contender. His record at this level stands up to anyone.
Paul Cook is much admired, boasting a similarlyimpressive record and with the added benefit of enjoying success at this level with Will Grigg and Max Power.
Whether he is open to the idea remains to be seen, with Peter Reid, who knows him well, suggesting that he is happy at the DW Stadium.
Gareth Ainsworth has overseen Wycombe’s recent impressive rise and some canny summer recruitment has seen him transform their attacking threat this season.
He is a strong contender, though Millwall have been linked with a move for a manager who has turned down interest from Barnsley, Notts County and Lincoln City in recent years.
Having pipped Sunderland to promotion last season, Daniel Stendel is also an option.
Nigel Pearson will be considered and has close links with Phillips.
The pressure will be on whoever lands the job, with the clear aim of delivering promotion come the end of the season already laid out.
Speaking to the Telegraph on Friday, Charlie Methven said: “Some people felt we removed Ross too soon, others think we took too long.
“We will only know whether it was the right decision in the fullness of time, but our sole aim is to get promoted this season. We are currently working through a fairly conventional process of identifying the right person to get the team out of League One.”
Stewart Donald told supporters there would be an update on the proposed deal at the weekend, in response to an article in The Sun that claimed the deal has collapsed.
A statement released on Friday night said: “The Board has consistently stated its desire to seek additional investment to enable the club to be competitive in whichever league it finds itself in. In League One, this (additional investment) is not a necessity, so it is a matter of looking to future requirements, if and when promotion is achieved.
“Discussions have been ongoing for some time, and continue to be so, but until those talks have concluded one way or the other the club cannot give further comment, owing to confidentiality agreements.
“Please do not attach undue credence to speculation and theories from various sources, as they are unsubstantiated.
“Across all areas of the club we continue to operate and progress as usual. The business of the club is in good working order, as we look forward to an exciting few months on the pitch.”