It has been revealed that Norwich City will not pursue Gary O’Neil as their next head coach, leaving the Canaries back in limbo as they search for a new leader.
Liam Manning was given his marching orders prior to the November international break after a dreadful start to the season, leaving the Norfolk side with a distinct possibility of relegation. His 11 games without a win made him the shortest-serving Norwich manager in history after his appointment in June.
O’Neil Out, Who Next?
Many names have been linked with the vacancy at Carrow Road, but the Canaries have had to deal with their Championship rivals going for many of the same targets, with Swansea City, Southampton and Middlesbrough all looking for new bosses right now.
One leading name for the Canaries was Gary O’Neil, which would have marked the end of a 9-year absence for the 42-year-old after a playing stint at the club. Middlesbrough were another potential destination for the former Wolves man, but have reportedly opted to go for Swedish manager Kim Hellberg.
However, according to the Pink ‘Un, O’Neil is now no longer under consideration by senior figures at Norwich, leaving them in limbo as to whether they will appoint a new head coach ahead of their match against Birmingham City.
It is noted that former Blackburn Rovers manager Jon Dahl Tomasson is a ‘strong contender’ for the role at Carrow Road, alongside a few other unnamed alternatives. Reports earlier this week from Tipsbladet had revealed that the club had interviewed the Danish boss, with talks going well.
Is Tomasson The Right Man?
With experience at Blackburn Rovers, Jon Dahl Tomasson is an ideal candidate to take over at Norwich. He did an admirable job at Ewood Park considering the backing he had from his owners there and has been successful abroad with two Allsvenskan titles at Malmo.
However, his most recent role with Sweden has to be considered. The end of his tenure with the national team imploded in disastarous circumstances, effectively ending their chances of direct World Cup qualfication despite having the talents of players like Alexander Isak and Victor Gyokeres.
