QPR manager search: here’s how things stand

The pursuit of a new QPR manager continues following the recent sacking of Steve McClaren. Here’s how things currently stand…

Tim Sherwood

Director of football Les Ferdinand’s choice. Is interested and understands the club’s difficult financial situation but wants assurances from the owners over their future plans. Talks are set to take place next week.

Mark Warburton and Michael Appleton

Both very much in contention. Appleton has spoken to the club and Warburton is expected to hold talks in the coming days.

Gary Rowett

Initially seen by Rangers as one of four leading candidates along with Sherwood, Warburton and Appleton, but it now out of the running.

Darren Moore

Has indicated that he is interested. Has not been interviewed yet and his representatives believe he could land a more attractive job as his stock is fairly high following his controversial recent sacking by West Brom.

Kenny Jackett

Previously overlooked for the QPR job and now manager of Portsmouth, who are in a stable position and challenging for promotion from League One. Could be an option if Rangers wait until the end of the season and Pompey don’t go up, but even then he might well be out of reach.

Derek McInnes

Ferdinand likes the Aberdeen manager and was keen on him last year but the owners wanted McClaren. However, like Jackett, he would not be easy to prise away. Compensation to Aberdeen would be a stumbling block and in any case QPR’s financial situation could deter McInnes, who has had to rebuild his reputation since working in difficult circumstances at Bristol City.

Gareth Ainsworth

There has been no sign at all of a move for the former QPR winger, who has been Wycombe manager for almost seven years. Whether that changes if Rangers do not appoint someone this season remains to be seen. Was initially regarded by the club as very much a possible replacement when McClaren was on thin ice at Loftus Road, but momentum behind Ainsworth then slowed.

Marc Bircham

The former QPR player, coach and assistant boss was interviewed this week.

Lee Bowyer

The Charlton manager’s current contract is due to expire this summer and he would be keen on the Rangers job if approached.

Nigel Pearson, Steve Cotterill and Billy Davies have shown an interest in the job, while the CVs of various coaches outside the UK have been submitted.