Bookmakers slash odds on Mike Phelan joining Middlesbrough

The odds on Mike Phelan becoming the Next Middlesbrough Manager have been slashed, with the former Manchester United coach emerging as the new favourite in the betting. Phelan has gone from a 66/1 outsider to the evens frontrunner with Bet Victor after a flurry of bets were placed on the 51-year-old, who helped lead United to three Premier League title, two League Cups and a Club World Cup.

Boro are on the hunt for a new boss having sacked Tony Mowbray on Monday following a poor start to the season. Chairman Steve Gibson is likely to take his time in searching for a successor, meaning Mowbray’s former assistant Mark Venus may have a couple of games to impress in his role as caretaker manager. It has already been confirmed that Venus, who is currently a 33/1 long shot with BV, will take charge for Boro’s match at home to Doncaster on Friday.

Former Stoke boss Tony Pulis emerged as the early favourite in the market but has since drifted to 4/1 (Sky Bet). Elsewhere Stuart Pearce can be found at 16/1, while Martin O'Neill is available at 18/1. The ex-Derby gaffer Nigel Clough is also in the mix at 14/1, although he is widely expected to be appointed as the Next Sheffield United Manager within the next few days.