Leicester close to appointing Dean Smith as manager on short-term deal

SHORT-TERM DEAL: Former Aston Villa manager Dean Smith. Pic: Michael Steele/PA Wire

Leicester City have turned their attention to appointing Dean Smith on a short-term deal in their bid to avoid relegation from the Premier League. There is optimism a deal could be finalised in the next 48 hours.

The club had pinpointed the former Leeds manager Jesse Marsch as their favoured option to take charge but talks broke down over the weekend. Talks have also been held with Rafael Benítez, who is also out of work.