Stoke City are targeting Gary Rowett and Martin O’Neill as possible replacements for the recently sacked Mark Hughes.

Stoke City have shortlisted two potential candidates for their vacant position of manager after sacking Mark Hughes on Saturday.
Hughes, who spent four-and-a-half-years at the Potters, endured a terrible poor run of form which featured five losses from seven games in the Premier League, ultimately leading to his dismissal.

The club appointed first-team coach Eddie Niedzwiecki temporarily in charge while the board go about securing a new manager.
Gary Rowett of Derby County and Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill have emerged as the two outstanding candidates, and it is understood that Stoke will be looking to speak with both men over the job vacancy in the coming days.

It has been reported by the BBC that Derby County would aggressively reject any advances from Stoke to try to land Rowett as their manager.
Derby currently sit second in the Championship and are serious contenders to make a return to the Premier League and it is therefore understandable as to why the club are desperate to hold on to Rowett.
O’Neill, however, agreed verbally to stay on with Ireland, but it is believed that he has not yet signed anything formally to tie him down to the international job.
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