Former Nottingham Forest manager now clear favourite for Birmingham City job

Former Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper has emerged as the clear favourite to take over the Birmingham City job following Wayne Rooney's sacking, at 2/5 odds via bookmakers Sky Bet.

The 44-year-old is available after being relieved of his duties by Forest on December 19. Things didn't go well for Cooper this season but he's a hero in Nottingham for the work he did throughout his 28-month stay.

Cooper's achievements at Forest include achieving promotion to the Premier League via the 2021/22 Championship play-offs, winning three Championship Manager of the Month awards, and leading the club to a 16th-placed top-flight finish last campaign.

Who are the Birmingham City new manager favourites?

The likes of Tony Mowbray (5/1), Gary Rowett and Jesse Marsch (both 7/1) have been touted but Cooper is the clear favourite at 2/5. Speculation is growing that Cooper could indeed be the man set for the St Andrew's dugout, but fans should await more concrete news before getting too excited.