Posted by Tim Mallow's View

TMR Football Blogger, Tim Mallows-

Ever since Gary Speed left Sheffield United nearly 3 weeks ago, The Blades have been very coy about possible replacements for the Welshman. Not many managers have come out and voiced their interest in the Bramall Lane hot seat, but with 2011 approaching and with The Blades lying just 4 points above the Championship drop zone it seems the club need to appoint a manager quickly in order to instil a bit of stability within the club.

No one can really blame Speed for giving up his post at Sheffield United after only 4 months in charge; it’s every manager’s dream to manage their country, you might even get to pit your wits against those talented players in a Spain shirt, after all!

But it does seem as though he has left United somewhat in the lurch, as their search for a new manager has thus far proved fruitless. Here we look at some likely candidates:

John Carver – Currently in caretaker charge of Sheffield United following Speeds resignation; Carver has a home win and a defeat to date. Looking for his first full-time managerial role in England after several caretaker roles, Carver has the backing of most of the Sheffield United squad and would be the cheapest and most logical option for the Blades.

Sean O’Driscoll – The bookies favourite for the role at Bramall Lane; O’Driscoll is currently manager of over-achievers – Doncaster Rovers. If he was appointed, this would involve United paying a hefty compensation sum to ‘Donny’ who will fight tooth and nail to keep their manager. O’Driscoll’s reputation has been enhanced by heavily successful spells at Bournemouth and now Doncaster and he could well be tempted by a move to a more lucrative, well known club.

Phil Brown – Brown was the early bookies favourite for the role, but has slipped down the betting odds over the past week. Having been out of work since he was sacked by Hull City the best part of a year ago; Brown, who has an already impressive Championship promotion with Hull City on his CV, may be just what the Sheffield United board are after. However with a history of dividing fans views, he may not be the man that is going to create the stability needed to guide this club back to the Premier League.

Micky Adams – Rumour has it that Sheffield United have asked for permission from Adams’ current employer Port Vale; therefore it would appear he is now the favourite for the role. Adams has the experience and knowledge that ‘The Blades’ would require from their future manager; but they would have to take into account Adams’ failings at that level previously before looking to appoint him.