Tony Pulis this evening became the latest long-standing Premier League manager to leave his position.
Stoke City confirmed that they had reached a "mutual agreement" with Pulis, 55, to end his seven-year reign at the Britannia Stadium.
His departure means that Arsenal's Arsene Wenger is the only top-flight stalwart left after the departures of Sir Alex Ferguson and David Moyes at Manchester United and Everton respectively. Newcastle boss Alan Pardew is the next longest-serving at under two-and-a-half years in the job.
Here, Sports Mole picks out five early contenders who could fill the void in Staffordshire.
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A Champions League winner with Chelsea and with further Premier League experience at West Brom, the Italian is an early favourite. Many saw his exit from Stamford Bridge, just months after guiding the club to European glory, as harsh and it is believed that he wants to get back in the game. He would also move Stoke away from the direct style of play with which they are often associated.
Odds: 9/2
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Another who is soon to suffer the chop at Chelsea, Benitez also oversaw a European victory for the Blues in this year's Europa League as 'interim manager'. The Spaniard's successful history would be welcomed at the Britannia and his tactical nature would not radically change the ethos of departing Pulis. The 53-year-old is a surprise frontrunner with the bookies as Stoke would be viewed as a step down for the man whose last four jobs have been at Valencia, Liverpool, Inter Milan and Chelsea.
Odds: 5/1
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The former Wales manager is keen to get back into management after a disappointing short spell at QPR. Again, Hughes may not be a complete breath of fresh air but does have numerous years of experience at the top level and should be able to sign some impressive talent.
Odds: 5/1
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The currently-suspended Brighton & Hove Albion manager appears to be looking for a new challenge after failing in the Championship playoffs, where Brighton lost out to arch rivals Crystal Palace. Like Di Matteo, he would offer a different, more cultured style of football that many of Stoke's fan are said to crave. The Uruguayan has never managed at the top level though.
Odds: 8/1
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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. He recently confirmed that he has not yet retired but that looks more likely than another season playing. Having worked under both former and now current Manchester United managers - Ferguson and Moyes - Neville could be an interesting gamble for the Potters.
Odds: 14/1
Pascal Lemesre
