GARY Megson has admitted he is ready to return to football management – but has stopped short of putting his name in the frame for the Ipswich Town job.

The odds on Megson taking over from Paul Jewell significantly shortened yesterday and while Alan Curbishley and Alan Shearer remain firmer favourites, Megson could be a contender.

He is widely believed to have been on the shortlist before Jewell took over and since then he has enjoyed success with Sheffield Wednesday – where supporters questioned the board’s decision to replace him with Dave Jones in March.

But Town fans yesterday bombarded social media forums with their concern over the Megson links.

Some questioned how his teams play while his Norwich links, a one-time player and then manager, won’t be ignored by most.

But speaking to the Sheffield Star, Megson said: “I do want to get back in work.

“I might not be the best-dressed of the managers available and I might not talk the same bull as the managers who are available.

“But I have got the best record in the Championship of all the managers who are available.”

It is understood Megson remains on gardening leave from Wednesday, ironically Town’s opponents tomorrow, which could be an obstacle owner Marcus Evans would have to overcome.

With Burnley and Crystal Palace also looking for managers in the Championship, there are opportunities for Megson to get his wish.

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* Keep checking this website today and over the weekend for all the latest on the race to replace Paul Jewell