Simon Grayson Hot Favourite To Become Next Preston Manager

According to reports Preston North End are expected to name a new manager before their match against Swindon on 23 February, with Simon Grayson currently the hot favourite in the betting. The former Huddersfield manager was sacked last month but could now be in line for a swift return to the game with the struggling League One club.

Graham Westley stepped down on Wednesday following Tuesday night's 3-1 defeat to Yeovil. It was the club's third consecutive loss and with just a single win from his last 14 games he decided it was time to walk away. Westley spent 13 months at Deepdale, where he won just 16 of his 62 matches in all competitions. He leaves the League One side 17th in the table and five points above the relegation zone with 15 games remaining.

The club have revealed that they have received 25 to 30 serious applications for the post. Speculation is rapidly mounting that Grayson is set to take charge of the Lilywhites, with his promotion success with Blackpool, Leeds and Huddersfield making him an attractive option. Other contenders in the Next PNE Manager Odds market include the out-of-work Owen Coyle and Wycombe Wanderers boss Gareth Ainsworth, who is a former Preston player.