Former Crystal Palace defender Tony Popovic has calmed rumours that he could be the man to succeed Ian Holloway as manager at Selhurst Park.

The 40-year-old spent five years as a player with the Eagles after joining from J-League side Sanfrecce Hiroshima in 2001, and was later assistant manager under Dougie Freedman.

He left South London to take over the newly-founded Western Sydney Wanderers in May of last year, and in his first season guided them to the A-League Premier's plate, although they lost 2-0 to Central Coast Mariners in the Grand Final.

"I don't know about being in the market [for the job] but they're a great club and a club that's close to me," the former Australian international told reporters.

"I want them to do well in the Premiership and I'm sure they'll make the right appointment to keep them in that great competition.

"Rumours are big in football and I'm sure they've got a huge list of candidates that would love that job."

Tony Pulis is thought to be leading candidate for the vacant post.