Derby County owner Mel Morris is considering his options to replace Gary Rowett as manager of the club and three names have appeared on his list.
According to The Mirror's Live Transfer Blog [Wednesday 23rd May, 13:39], Morris could appoint Carlos Carvalhal, Mick McCarthy or Dean Smith as Rowett's successor.
Rowett left Derby in controversial fashion earlier this week to join recently-relegated Stoke City.
The 44-year-old had previously been a target for the Potters but opted to remain at Derby, citing his loyalty to the club as the reason for remaining, but he has since had a change of heart and taken the job at the bet365 Stadium.
This has left Derby without a manager after they fell short of promotion by losing in the play-off semi-final to Fulham.
Ahead of their 11th consecutive season in the second tier, Derby owner Morris is weighing up who to appoint.
Brentford manager Smith is one of his options, having recently been targeted by West Bromwich Albion.
The 47-year-old has done an impressive job at Brentford, thrice leading them to the verge of the play-offs with a small budget and earning plaudits for his attractive style of play.
Carlos Carvalhal is also on the list, having recently parted ways with Swansea City after the Welsh club were relegated from the Premier League.
Formerly of Sheffield Wednesday, the Portuguese boss is looking for employment.
The other option is Mick McCarthy, who left Ipswich Town after six years of service earlier this year.
The Verdict
Out of these three, I would want to see Smith at the club if I was a Derby fan.
His passing style of play would be a completely different dynamic to Rowett's tactics and it could get the Rams fans excited to watch their team.
He has operated on a tight budget before so this would be no different with Morris keen to keep finances tight this summer.
McCarthy would provide experience and solidity while Carvalhal would be more of a risk but he has twice led Sheffield Wednesday to the play-offs.
Derby fans - Who would you like as your new manager? Let us know below...