League One boss supported to replace Coyle at Bolton

Michael Appleton was initially considered a longshot hope to succeed Owen Coyle at Bolton, when the latter’s departure was confirmed by the club earlier this week.

However, with money coming in for the current Portsmouth manager, Appleton now finds himself 7/2 third-favourite to take the Trotters reins.

Despite overseeing Championship relegation at Fratton Park last season, Appleton won many plaudits for his performance in such a chaotic role.

With his hands tied by the financial uncertainty surrounding the South Coast club, the former West Brom coach was rendered blameless as his side fell into the third tier.

And even after an indifferent start to life in League One, it is thought that the 36-year-old has still managed to impress reputable clubs with his enthusiastic approach.

At the forefront of these would appear to be Bolton, with local press suggesting the club would prefer a youthful candidate to the likes of the experienced Mick McCarthy.

That said, McCarthy does remain 1/1 favourite to take charge of Wanderers, but Appleton is edging ever closer to the Irishman in the betting.

Indeed, the Pompey chief started out as a 14/1 shot to replace Coyle, before being continuously trimmed as money continued to pour in for him.

Appleton himself has distanced himself from rumours linking him with Bolton, but admits the situation could alter should the club make an approach for his services.

“From my point of view, until I’m contacted by Bolton or any other club out there or I’m contacted by the administrator to tell me there’s an interest, I’ll continue to work with the players,” he told PA Sport.

“They deserve my full, 100 per cent commitment. I’ll continue to do that until I know differently.”

Still getting shorter in the market today, it may be wise to invest in Appleton at 7/2 before any potential approach does come to fruition.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.