O'Leary favoured to take over at Fulham

FORMER Leeds boss David O'Leary has been installed as early favourite to replace Jean Tigana at Fulham, with veteran player John Collins, Louis Van Gaal and former Japan coach Philippe Troussier also touted as potential candidates.

Bookmakers William Hill quoted O'Leary, who had been linked to the job previously, at 5/1, with Collins at 7/1 and Bryan Robson and former Barcelona coach van Gaal at 8/1. Troussier was at 9/1 alongside former French coach Roger Lemerre.

Fulham announced yesterday that Tigana's contract would not be renewed in the summer although he will remain in charge for the remaining seven games of this campaign.