McCann, Rosler and Heckingbottom linked with Doncaster Rovers following Ferguson's exit

Doncaster Rovers have been forced to open up a summer search for a new manager following the surprise resignation of Darren Ferguson.

In a statement on the club's official website Doncaster said they will instantly embark on the hunt for Ferguson's replacement, and will give another update within the next 24 hours.

For now we go by the Next Doncaster Manager Market which has flung open its doors with the ubiquitous Grant McCann, former Leeds and Barnsley boss Paul Heckingbottom, Stuart McCall, Mark Warburton, and Uwe Rosler a handful of the early names in the frame.

Ferguson's decision to leave after two-and-a-half-years means that there are now four Football League clubs from Yorkshire looking for a new manager: Leeds, Bradford, Barnsley and now Doncaster.

The 46-year-old, who took charge of Rovers in October 2015, had been the 15th longest-serving manager in the top-4 tiers of English football, however on Monday night he decided to call it quits following discussions with the board.

During his time in charge of Doncaster Ferguson suffered relegation down to League Two, only to then lead the club straight back up to the third-tier, while they finished 15th last season.

Who should replace Darren Ferguson at Doncaster Rovers?

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After leaving his post he told the League Managers Association:

"Following recent discussions and meetings with the board I have decided to resign from my position as manager of Doncaster Rovers Football Club.

"I'm disappointed to have made this decision as I have enjoyed my time at the club and was looking forward to the new season, but I felt I had no alternative.

"I would like to thank the board for the opportunity and I am grateful to the players, staff and fans for their support. I wish the club all the best in the future."

Prior to his Doncaster tenure, the son of Sir Alex Ferguson managed Peterborough on two occasions, either side of a spell at Preston. However, he could now be back sooner than you think after he was propelled into 8/1 to make a swift return to management with Bradford.

Statement from Doncaster Rovers

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— The Sack Race (@thesackrace) June 4, 2018