Second interview for Jones as Pool's search goes on

Blackpool's search for a new manager continued over the Bank Holiday, with a second interview for Dave Jones.
Dave JonesDave Jones
Dave Jones

The former Cardiff City and Sheffield Wednesday boss impressed enough during a first meeting with Karl Oyston to earn a second chat four days later.

It’s believed that Jones is interested in the role and has already discussed contract issues including salary and potential severance pay-offs.

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He and the club are expected to talk again in the next 24 hours.

Jones is one of six candidates spoken to so far, with Shrewsbury Town boss Micky Mellon also high on Oyston’s list.

It’s understood Pool would consider a move for the former Fleetwood Town man, but compensation would be the stumbling block.

Oyston would have to pay the League One side a fee of around £100,000 to release Mellon who would also come with a hefty team of backroom staff.

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Since leaving Fleetwood in 2012 Mellon has been building his reputation at Shrewsbury, winning promotion to League One in 2015 and leading them to safety last season.

After a week of talks which began last Monday, it’s expected that Pool will start again this morning as Oyston returns from a Bank Holiday break.

Also spoken to last week were former Pool hero Keith Southern who would be interested in the role.

While Oyston is keen, it’s more likely that he could be offered a role on the backroom staff.

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Another being considered for the vacant managerial position is Tranmere Rovers boss Gary Brabin, who played for the Seasiders during the 1990s.

It’s understood he would be happy to return to Bloomfield Road as boss, while an unknown other two names remain in the running.

While current assistant manager Richie Kyle and club legend Ian Holloway have been high in the betting odds, neither are likely to be considered for the role as Neil McDonald’s successor.

It’s understood that Holloway believes it would the wrong time to make his return to Bloomfield Road despite being out of work.

Blackpool’s search is now into a third week, leaving the club’s preparations already behind many of their League Two rivals.