Mark Hughes has distanced himself from the Blackburn Rovers job, leaving former Aston Villa coach Kevin MacDonald as favourite to head up a new managerial set-up at the club following the departure of Henning Berg from Ewood Park.

Berg and his managerial team were sacked by Venky’s, Blackburn’s Indian owners, after 57 days in charge at Ewood Park. The Norwegian presided over a single win in 10 matches which have left Rovers 17th in the Championship. Berg’s last match in charge was the 1-0 defeat by Middlesbrough on St Stephen’s Day.

The early indications are that Venky’s now want to bring in MacDonald as head coach. MacDonald was Republic of Ireland’s assistant manager under Steve Staunton. The Scot left Villa Park in the summer and is understood to be on the payroll at the midlands club where he also served as a caretaker manager.

Reflecting on his departure, Berg said: “It goes without saying that I am bitterly disappointed . . . it was an honour for me to manage a club that is so close to my heart and I now wish all of them every success.

Guardian Service