Three former Celtic men in the early running for Aberdeen job

A few former Celtic characters look to be involved in Aberdeen's search for a new manager. The Dons need a new boss after sacking Steven Robinson on the back of a bruising home defeat to Hibs.

That result saw Aberdeen drop to bottom but one in the table, although they do still have a game in hand over some teams due to their Premier Sports Cup semi-final defeat to Rangers.

Confirming the decision, Aberdeen said in a statement: "Following a Board meeting, Aberdeen Football Club has today taken the decision to part company with Head Coach Stephen Robinson.

"Stephen leaves the Club alongside Assistant Head Coach Brian Kerr and First Team Coach Stephen Craigan. We thank them for their efforts during their time at Pittodrie and wish them every success for the future.

"Preparatory work to support the appointment of a new manager has been undertaken, and the recruitment process is ongoing. The focus will be on identifying the right candidate to lead the Club forward and deliver the progress expected across all areas of the football operation.

"Stuart Duff will assume interim charge of first team training while the Club continues its search for a new Head Coach."

Former Ross County and current Scotland under-21s boss Tony Docherty is believed to be the favourite, while Rotherham United assistant and former Dons coach Peter Leven is also among the favourites.

Former Celtic boss Neil Lennon is also high in the odds, and he has been linked with a return to Parkhead in recent weeks, but that doesn't seem likely.

There is also a place among the favourites for former Celtic midfielder Scott Brown, who finished his career with the Dons before going on to manage Fleetwood Town and Ayr United. Brann boss Erik Homeland is also among the main favourites, and there is no obvious connection to the Dons.

At time of writing, former Celtic defender Gary Caldwell is not among the favourites, but he has been linked with the job. He is currently Wigan Athletic boss but his side are in the final relegation spot so far, so he may be gettable.

Aberdeen have two weeks to find a new boss if they want one before the end of the international break, which is likely why they have made the decision now, with no further break to play this calendar year. Robinson won't be the only casualty up and down the country this week for that reason.