Sheffield United consider Warnock return after sacking Jokanovic
Sheffield United have sacked Slavisa Jokanovic after six months as manager. Jokanovic’s appointment on a threeyear deal was regarded as a coup but the Championship club have struggled and are 16th. It is understood their former manager Neil Warnock is among those under consideration to take over.
Jokanovic won promotion to the Premier League with Fulham and Watford. Despite the team winning at Reading on Tuesday the United owners have decided to act on a poor run of one victory in five games. Paul Heckingbottom, the Under-23s manager who previously took caretaker charge in the Premier League, could again be given the reins on a temporary basis.
The relationship between Jokanovic and the United hierarchy frayed in recent weeks, with Chris Wilder’s successor voicing unhappiness regarding the club’s playing budget. His remit this season was promotion. United host Bristol City on Sunday, with Heckingbottom likely to take charge. Heckingbottom is highly regarded by United’s owners but it is unclear whether he is a candidate for the long-term position.
Warnock is out of work after leaving Middlesbrough this month and would be keen on a return to Bramall Lane.
The 72-year-old managed United from 1999-2007 and took the club into the Premier League.
Jokanovic’s sacking is expected to be confirmed on Thursday. Michael Appleton, the Lincoln City head coach, is also known to have admirers at the club.