Neil Critchley’s time at Hearts is up after the Tynecastle hierarchy opted to relieve his of his duties following the disappointed 1-0 home defeat to struggling Dundee at the weekend.
Sacked after just six months in the role, the board opted to make the change after Simon Murray’s first-half strike made it five games without a win and comes just one week on from the team’s extra-time defeat to Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup semi-final last week.
The news means Hearts are now searching for their third permanent manager of the season, with Liam Fox placed in caretaker charge for the second time this campaign. But who are the early favourites to take the reins at Hearts in the weeks to come? Here are the latest odds*.
*All odds are offered by Gambling.com and can change at any time. Please gamble responsibly.
5. Duncan Ferguson - 6/1
Recently left Inverness after their well documented points deduction, and is amongst the favourite to replace Neil Critchley. | POOL/AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
6. David Martindale - 4/1
Often mentioned when it comes to vacant top flight jobs but, so far, no club has managed to lure him away from Livingston. Could Hearts be a little to tempting, though? | SNS Group Photo: Mark Scates - SNS Group
7. Steven Pressley - 4/1
Hasn't managed since 2019 with Carlisle United, and is currently working in a backroom role with EPL outfit Brentford. The ex-Hearts defender has been tipped to be a potential replacement for Neil Critchley, with reports stating he is 'ready to answer the call'. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
8. Stuart Kettlewell - 7/2
The 40-year-old has been out of work since January, when he walked out on Motherwell, stating personal abuse from sections of the fanbase were behind his decision. Is he ready to take on the role and pressure of being Hearts' next boss? | Getty Images Photo: Steve Welsh/Getty Images