How would United fans feel about this one? Gareth Southgate has become a candidate for the manager's job at Old Trafford, as the decision makers at the club become increasingly unsure about the chances of luring Mauricio Pochettino to Manchester.
The Telegraph are reporting that while the Argentine remains the clubs first choice, there is increasing concern that he may choose to remain at Tottenham. Alternative options are being considered, and Southgate has emerged as a possible choice.
His reputation has soared after England's showing at the World Cup in Russia, leading them to the semifinal for only the second time in the past five decades. He has reversed the fortunes of a team that was seemingly going nowhere fast, something that has caught the eye of the Manchester United brass.
His record in club management would surely be a concern, however. His only experience at that level was a largely unsuccessful stint at Middlesbrough from 2006-09, and he has not been involved in the club game since. Managing at the international level is vastly different, and one would have to wonder how his skills would translate to Old Trafford.
Whether Southgate would be interested in the position is another question. While he is no doubt committed to England, he would be wise enough to realise that situations can change quickly in football. His stock is as high as it may ever be, and an opportunity to manage a club of this size will likely not come around again.
Southgate is not the only name on United's list. Zinedine Zidane is also seen as an option, while Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's bright start in his interim role have also vaulted him into consideration. He will likely need to continue his incredible form for the remainder of the season to have a chance, something that will be tested tomorrow afternoon at Wembley.
He will come up against Mauricio Pochettino, in what has been billed as the Argentinian's audition for the job. Gareth Southgate will likely be in the stands watching some of his international players, meaning we could have three candidates for the Manchester United job in the stadium at once.
