HOPEFULS LINE UP FOR HOTSEAT

Owner Cameron to meet candidates

Ayr owner Lachlan Cameron is preparing to fly home and lead the chase for a new boss.

The United chairman will meet with shortlisted candidates from Monday. Former Premiership bosses Jim McIntyre and Martin Canning are among those in the running.

They join interim boss Sandy Stewart at the head of the queue. McIntyre ( right), who won a League Cup with Ross County, has declared his interest in the Somerset hotseat.

And despite leaving Dundee following last season’s relegation, his stock remains fairly high within the game.

Meanwhile it’s understood former Hamilton boss Canning ( left), who has run the rule over Ayr in recent weeks, is another waiting in the wings.

His achievement in keeping Hamilton in the top flight for four years on limited resources is sure to win some favour.

United’s board will convene this week to whittle down initial candidates after receiving around 40 applications.

Speaking about his criteria, Cameron said: “Generally it’s about experience and/ or leadership ability.

“We’re also looking for proper licensing, contacts and knowledge in the Scottish game, evidence of providing a route to first team football for youth/ academy players and the ability to work within budget among other things.”

A strong emphasis will be placed on developing the club’s promising Academy talent, the Post understands.

Caretaker boss Stewart insisted his position had “not changed” despite Saturday’s 2- 0 defeat against Inverness.

He said: “I’ve been asked to take the team until after the Dunfermline game and will do so unless told otherwise.”