Scotland No2 John Carver emerges as Kilmarnock next manager contender
Steve Clarke's right hand man took charge of Polish top flight club Lechia Gdansk in November.
Languishing in 17th place Carver has pulled off an improbable rescue job by defying a transfer ban, financial issues and a player strike to win eight of his 15 games in charge and guide the team to safety with games to spare.
With his contract due to expire this summer the Englishman has an option to extend for another season.
Keen to explore possibilities closer to home, Carver is ready to speak to Kilmarnock about the Rugby Park role after Derek McInnes left for Hearts. And can call on a reference from Scotland colleague and former Killie boss Clarke.
In a statement yesterday Kilmarnock confirmed that work on appointing a new manager is already underway with Managing Director Phyllis McLeish drawing up a list of candidates the club want to interview in the coming days.
Former Tynecastle manager Steven Naismith is the favourite to return to the ground where he started his career.
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Engaged in media work and family life since leaving Hearts in September the 38-year-old has refused to rule out a return to his local team, but would need some convincing that the time was right to go back in.
Former Killie number two Tony Docherty could come in to the thinking after his sacking from Dundee.
Interim boss Chris Burke, who took the team for the final league game of the season against Hearts, is also highly rated by the club hierarchy after leading the under-18 team to the Scottish Youth Cup.
Herald Sport understands, however, that the former Rangers winger has an opportunity to return to Ibrox as part of the youth coaching set-up.
Killie owner Billy Bowie thanked departing boss McInnes for his work in taking Killie back to the Premiership and keeping them there, saying: 'What Derek has achieved at the club will not be forgotten and the memories will remain in the club's history
'His leadership both on and off the pitch has left a lasting impact, and he departs with our sincerest thanks.'
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