Middlesbrough are poised to begin their search for a new manager after reluctantly granting permission for current boss Rob Edwards to discuss the vacant position at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Championship club, sitting second in the table after 15 fixtures, now faces the crucial task of appointing a leader to continue their promotion push.
O'Neil Tipped for Riverside Return
Former West Ham United and Queens Park Rangers midfielder Gary O'Neil has quickly emerged as a leading candidate for the role at the Riverside Stadium.
The 42-year-old has been out of management since leaving Wolves in December 2024 and recently held talks about returning to Molineux before deciding against the move.
O'Neil boasts significant connections to Middlesbrough, having made 120 appearances for the club during a four-year spell as a player, which could prove influential in any potential appointment.
Manager Approaches Next Role With Caution
Speaking about his decision to turn down the Wolves opportunity, O'Neil told Sky Sports: "I spoke to the football club. It's a football club that I still have huge emotion for. I love the fan base, we had some very, very good times together.
"It just didn't feel like the right time, or the right fit for me at this moment. I've been very patient since I've come out. I've had conversations with lots of people at different clubs, and I want to make sure that we get the next one that feels right for me."
The former midfielder emphasised his careful approach to his next career move, having also been considered for the West Ham position earlier this season before the Hammers appointed Nuno Espirito Santo.
Proven Track Record in Promotion and Relegation Battles
O'Neil brings considerable experience to the potential role, having achieved promotion to the Premier League with both West Ham in 2012 and QPR in 2014 during his playing career.
His managerial credentials include successful spells at AFC Bournemouth and Wolves, where he demonstrated particular aptitude in navigating relegation battles.
With Middlesbrough firmly in the automatic promotion places, the club represents an attractive proposition for any manager seeking to return to the dugout.
Edwards' departure comes after Wolves sacked Vitor Pereira earlier this month, with the former Luton Town manager now expected to be confirmed at Molineux imminently.
