Hull City next manager: Former Sheffield United, Leeds United and Barnsley boss emerges as leading contender

Fans were left shocked earlier today (May 7) when Hull decided to part ways with the popular Rosenior, who is considered among the country’s most gifted young coaches.

He was dismissed after Hull missed out on the Championship play-offs, having their fate sealed on the final day of the regular season. In a statement, Hull’s owner and chairman Acun Ilıcalı insisted dismissing Rosenior was his most difficult decision at Hull to date.

He said: “This has been the most difficult decision I have had to make as chairman of this wonderful football club. No matter how trying the circumstance, I have to remove personal sentiment from these moments and ensure the long-term vision of the club is at the centre of my thinking.

“Since Liam’s arrival, we have enjoyed an open working relationship and progress has undoubtedly been made over the course of his tenure. He will always be a part of this family and I thank him for all his work.

Sign up to our new Sports Editor’s TeamTalk newsletter available this week

“However, it has become evident that our visions for the future are not aligned and I feel that now is the time to make a change. Our philosophy is clear, we will continue to drive this club forward, and whilst doing so I will continue to be open and transparent with our fans.

Heckingbottom has risen to the top of BetVictor’s list of leading contenders for the role, priced at 6/1. He is level with Rangers coach Alex Rae as the man believed to be most likely to take the reins.

Sheffield United dismissed Heckingbottom back in December, bringing an end to a tenure that featured a promotion-winning Championship campaign. He also led Barnsley out of League One, although his reign at Leeds was considerably less successful.

Earlier this year, he was linked with a move to Sunderland following the sacking of Michael Beale. However, the Black Cats have not yet unveiled a replacement for Beale and have Mike Dodds at the helm on a temporary basis.