STEVE COOPER is the leading contender to for the Birmingham City job following the departure of Wayne Rooney.
That's according to bookmakers Sky Bet, who've installed the former Nottingham Forest manager at 6/4 favourite to replace Rooney, who was sacked on Tuesday after a disastrous 15-game tenure.
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Rooney, 38, controversially replaced John Eustace in October and it's been an unmitigated disaster.
The club were sixth in the Championship when the England legend took charge.
But after a turbulent 15-match reign which comprised of nine defeats and only two victories, Birmingham have plummeted down the league table.
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The club are now anchored in 20th position and only six points clear of Sheffield Wednesday in the relegation zone.
Birmingham registered just one shot on target in their last two defeats to Leeds and Bristol City with unhappy supporters calling for his head.
The club's owners took action ahead of league games against Swansea, Stoke, Middlesbrough, West Brom and what could be a six-pointer against The Owls.
In a statement, the club said: "Birmingham City has today parted company with Manager, Wayne Rooney, and First Team Coach, Carl Robinson.
"Despite their best efforts, results have not met the expectations that were made clear at the outset. Therefore, the Board feels that a change in management is in the best interests of the Football Club.
"Professional Development Coach, Steve Spooner, will assume responsibility for Men’s First Team matters on an interim basis. The remaining coaching staff will be required to continue with their duties to assist Spooner."
But who will replace Wayne Rooney?
Recently axed Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper is the frontrunner, and has already seen his odds shorten from 2/1 to 6/4.
Cooper boasts a strong record in the Championship having gained promotion with Forest. His record in the division is also strong with 63 wins and 37 draws from his 130 matches with 1.74 points per game.
Tony Mowbray and former manager Gary Rowett are next in the netting market at 3/1 and 4/1 respectively, ahead of 6/1 duo Jesse Marsch and John Eustace.
Scott Parker is further behind at 10/1, while Lee Carsley (11/1) leads Frank Lampard, Anthony Barry and Graham Potter at 14/1.
Man Utd icon Rooney seen at Wigan vs Hull supporting ex-Derby assistant Rosenior
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