Wolves make official approach for manager interviewed by Everton

Wolves pulled the trigger on Sunday morning, relieving O’Neil of his duties in the dawn of the devastating 2-1 defeat to Ipswich Town.

Jack Taylor’s 94th-minute header earned the Tractor Boys just their second victory of the season and crucially earned them all three points in a proper relegation six-pointer.

O’Neil threw several of his players under the bus after Saturday’s loss, claiming defenders didn’t follow instructions when defending the corner that led to Ipswich’s winner. He was also displeased with the discipline shown by the likes of Rayan Ait-Nouri and Matheus Cunha as both were caught up in a melee with Ipswich’s squad and staff.

Although reports earlier in the week suggested O’Neil had retained the support of Wolves’ higher-ups, this weekend’s loss and aftermath proved the final straw.

With the position now vacant, Birmingham World understands an official approach has already been made for O’Neil’s replacement. Vitor Pereira, the current manager of Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab, is in talks over taking over in the Molineux dugout.

The 56-year-old, interviewed by Everton in May 2013 after David Moyes left for Manchester United, has managed 12 clubs throughout his 22-year coaching career. Most recently, Pereira has been in charge of Flamengo, Corinthians, Fenerbahce, Shanghai SIPG and 1860 Munich.

Wanderers want to bring in a new head coach as soon as possible, avoiding a repeat of the long wait between Bruno Lage and Julen Lopetegui. It’s hoped O’Neil’s replacement will be through the door before next weekend’s crucial trip to Leicester City.