McClaren: Hammers job not for me

Former England manager Steve McClaren has ruled himself out of the running to replace Avram Grant as West Ham manager.

McClaren, who was sacked by German club Wolfsburg earlier this season following a successful spell in Holland with FC Twente, was thought to be among the favourites to replace Israeli Grant.

But, in a statement to Sky Sports News, McClaren said: "It is very flattering to be linked with a club of West Ham's size and historic stature, also one that has tremendous fans. However, at this moment in time I do not wish to be considered for the position. But I wish everybody at West Ham all the very best for the future."

Grant was sacked by Hammers co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan following Sunday's 3-2 defeat at Wigan, which condemned the London club to relegation to the npower Championship.

First-team coach Kevin Keen has been placed in temporary charge, while Chris Hughton, Neil Warnock, Gus Poyet and Sam Allardyce could be in the frame for the permanent position.

Co-owner David Gold is adamant the next manager should have the appropriate credentials to lead the team back into the Premier League, aware of how costly the wrong appointment could prove.

Considering how soon the hunt for a new boss might end, Gold said: "The sooner the better because we have a lot of work to do - an enormous amount of work - but we mustn't be rushed.

"This will be a very, very important appointment."