IPSWICH Town supporters are hoping it will be third time lucky for owner Marcus Evans as he begins his search for the latest manager of his five-year regime.

The EADT’s chief football writer STUART WATSON takes a look at some potential routes to go down.

MICK MCCARTHY

Controversially sacked by Wolves back in February, the straight-talking Yorkshireman could be exactly what is needed. Not only would the 53-year-old bring some discipline to the dressing room, but his contacts would be useful when it comes to the task of replacing loan players in January.

OWEN COYLE

Sacked by Bolton in September following a poor start to life back in the Championship. The 46-year-old Scotsman led Burnley to the Premier League before his controversial switch between Lancashire clubs.

BILLY DAVIES

The 48-year-old Scotsman would certainly stamp his authority on the club. Took Derby to the Premier League and was twice a play-off loser at Nottingham Forest. Been out of work since June last year.

ALAN CURBISHLEY

The former West Ham and Charlton boss is the bookies’ favourite at present, however, there must be concerns that this could be a case of replacing like with like. Jewell had been out of management for two years when he took over at Portman Road. Curbishley hasn’t been in management since being sacked by the Hammers in September 2008.

The 54-year-old’s achievements in the game are not to be dismissed though, having masterminded two promotions and Premier League consolidation at The Valley and then helping West Ham avoid the drop.

HARRY REDKNAPP

An adviser to Marcus Evans, there has long been speculation that the former Tottenham boss could become an unlikely coup. More realistic would be him recommending his former assistants Joe Jordan and Kevin Bond as the men for the job.

DOUGIE FREEDMAN

One of the most highly-rated managers in the game following his success at Crystal Palace, confusion surrounds the future of the 38-year-old after a switch to Bolton has appeared to be have been put on hold.

His track-record of blooding youth, such as Nathaniel Clyne and Wilfried Zaha would certainly appeal to Blues fans.

GLENN HODDLE

The 54-year-old former England, Tottenham and Chelsea boss hasn’t been in management since leaving Wolves in 2006.

He has earned plaudits for his youth academy in Spain though and would get the team trying to play attractive football.

KARL ROBINSON

The 32-year-old became the youngest boss in the Football League at 30 and has already led MK Dons to two League One play-off finishes.

PAUL TISDALE

Former England youth player was forced to retire through injury at 27. The 39-year-old’s work at Exeter City is well respected.

TERRY BUTCHER

The passionate former Ipswich and England captain certainly knows what the club is all about.

His jobs in English football – Coventry, Sunderland and Brentford – haven’t been spectacular, with recent good work at Scottish club Inverness seeing his star rise again