ROBERTO Martinez and Owen Coyle have emerged as the shock frontrunners to succeed Gerard Houllier at Aston Villa with neither Rafael Benitez nor Steve McClaren in the running for the job.

The Wigan Athletic manager is believed to be the preferred candidate of the owner Randy Lerner. An approach has been made for the services of 37-year-old, whose refusal to change Wigan’s playing style under the threat of relegation won him admirers. His philosophy, man-management style and ability to work with modest resources are also likely to count in his favour.

Benitez was sounded out by Lerner but the approach did not develop to the interview stage while McClaren was informed he would not be required for interview.