Stoke City have identified Sheffield United's Chris Wilder as a potential successor for Gary Rowett.

The former Derby boss was sacked by the Potters this morning after a poor campaign so far that has seen the pre-season favourites fall to 14th in the table - some eight points behind the play-offs.

And, the Daily Mail report that the Staffordshire club are interested in speaking to Wilder along with Luton's Nathan Jones, with the duo part of the shortlist drawn up.

Wilder has done a fantastic job with his boyhood Blades in recent years, taking them to the League One title in style and pushing for the play-offs last season.

That progress has continued, with Sheffield United currently third in the table and firmly in the hunt for automatic promotion.

Obviously, that makes any deal extremely tough for the Potters as the Yorkshire side will be reluctant to lose the influential figure.

However, the report does add that Wilder has connections with Stoke, as he knows technical director Mark Cartwright from his time at Halifax.

The Verdict

You can understand why Wilder is a target for Stoke as he has done a superb job at Bramall Lane, bringing success and doing it playing some great football.

Whilst he might be tempted with the challenge of turning the struggling Championship side around and the increased resources he would have, it's going to be tough for Stoke to convince him to leave.

Although, fans should be pleased they are targeting managers like Wilder and Jones who would both be great appointments.

Thoughts, Stoke fans? Let us know in the comments below.