Stoke contenders

We look at the names in the frame for the Stoke job in the wake of Tony Pulis' exit from the club.

We look at the names in the frame for the Stoke job in the wake of Tony Pulis' exit from the Premier League club after seven years in charge.

ROBERTO DI MATTEO

The Champions League-winning former Chelsea and West Brom manager is one of the early favourite for the job. His reputation was dented somewhat by his sacking from Stamford Bridge but his experience with the Baggies would be more suited to a club like Stoke.

RAFA BENITEZ

The former Valencia, Liverpool, Inter Milan and Chelsea manager would be a surprise appointment at the Britannia Stadium given the pedigree of his previous positions. The Spaniard guided Chelsea to Europa League glory and to third in the table during his interim stint despite not having the backing of many supporters.

GUS POYET

The currently-suspended Brighton boss appears to be looking for a new challenge after failing in the npower Championship play-offs. Like Di Matteo he would offer a different style of football.

PHIL NEVILLE

With his future as a player still undecided, Neville, who will join the England Under-21 coaching staff for this summer's European Championships, has the option of going into management. Would represent something of a gamble after the stability provided by Pulis.

MARK HUGHES

The former Wales manager is keen to get back into management after a disappointing short spell at QPR. May not be as drastic a change in style and offers plenty of Premier League and international experience.

MARTIN O'NEILL

Another seasoned Premier League campaigner, the Northern Irishman has a reputation of getting the most out of his players and is available following his departure from Sunderland.