Steve Davis odds-on favourite for Wolves job
Crewe boss Steve Davis was today installed as the new odds-on favourite to become Wolves' first head coach in the latest Molineux job twist.
The 47-year-old League Two promotion winner – and boyhood Wolves fan – has muscled his way past previous front-runners Kenny Jackett and Steve McClaren.
Davis' efforts at Crewe are known to have caught the eye of owner Steve Morgan and establish him as a leading figure among the less-experienced group of candidates being considered.
His rising profile follows another eventful day likely to affect the dynamic of the club's quest – led by the sudden exit of Tony Pulis from Stoke.
Pulis comes with such a controversial reputation of direct football that it's difficult to imagine Wolves risking further negative reviews from supporters.
But whether Stoke's own search for his replacement may impact on Molineux remains to be seen as the Potters seek a 'change of direction'.
As things stand, chief executive Jez Moxey has now met with Kevin Thelwell to be fully briefed on the head of football's soundings from the groundwork conducted in his absence.
Jackett and McClaren, who are expected to meet with Moxey this week to discuss how to lead Wolves back to the Championship under revamped football management, remain in pole position due to their added experience.
Davis, in contrast, has only known management in the lower leagues – although his continuation of the Dario Gradi legacy will appeal to Wolves.
He finished the season with a landmark moment in English football when a team made up of Crewe Academy graduates beat Walsall 2-0.
This followed a safe passage through the club's first League One campaign after a remarkable debut season from the Birmingham-born father of three – a play-off promotion on the back of a club record unbeaten run.
Crewe then returned to Wembley this season to win the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.
Moxey's Stoke connections will prompt Pulis rumours but with the club making a point of declaring an "attractive style of football" a core ingredient in the way forward.
They would risk a further fans' backlash by approaching the abrasive ex-Britannia boss.
Milton Keynes Dons' Karl Robinson, another of the new wave of young bosses making a name for himself, has also sparked speculation about his future.
He is meeting with his agent Rob Segal following interest from Sheffield United.
