With David Moyes being named as Sir Alex Ferguson's replacement at Old Trafford, Everton have been left with their own void to fill ahead of next season.
The Toffees look likely to miss out on European football, but the vacant role at Goodison Park will no doubt attract plenty of interest.
So, who could replace a man who has spent 11 years enhancing the reputation of a club run on a tight budget to earn himself a move to one of the biggest clubs in the world? Sports Mole looks at the leading contenders below.
© PA Photos
Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez was linked with several Premier League vacancies last summer, but he eventually opted to remain at the DW Stadium. Liverpool and Aston Villa were two of the clubs that the Spaniard turned down, but with the Latics facing possible relegation from the Championship, it remains to be seen whether the loyalty of Martinez will stretch for one more season.
Odds: 2/1
© PA Photos
Neil Lennon has enjoyed tremendous success with Celtic in the SPL, but after winning his second league title in as many years, the Northern Irishman may be looking elsewhere for a new challenge. Celtic will face little competition when they attempt to defend the title next season, and that could encourage the 41-year-old to make what is a seemingly inevitable move to England sooner than planned.
Odds: 6/1
© AP Photos
Porto boss Vitor Pereira is an interesting candidate. The Portuguese coach is currently involved in a two-way tussle with Benfica for their domestic title, and it is unlikely that he would welcome any approach with just two games of their season remaining. However, attracting Pereira to Goodison Park would be something of a coup for chairman Bill Kenwright and he could prove a popular option if Kenwright is prepared to play a waiting game.
Odds: 6/1
© PA Photos
Phil Neville announced earlier this year that he would be leaving Goodison Park at the end of the season, but the departure of Moyes may create an opportunity for an off-the-pitch role. It would be a big gamble for Goodison Park to install Neville as the club's boss, but it is one that shouldn't be instantly dismissed.
Odds: 7/1
© PA Photos
Former Toffees forward Mark Hughes will be seen as an outside choice to be given a chance with Everton. Hughes impressed when in charge of the Wales national team, but his reputation has fallen after his failure at Queens Park Rangers, and that could mean that he will miss out on a potential return to his former club.
Odds: 14/1
