WALES boss Mark Hughes is on the shortlist for the vacant Blackburn Rovers manager's job and he could be installed by the end of the week.

Blackburn fans have made it clear Hughes is the man they want and the Lancashire club have drawn up a five-man short-list for the position that as well as Hughes also includes, Crystal Palace boss Iain Dowie, former Rangers and Holland manager Dick Advocaat, Hearts boss Craig Levein and former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier.

A Blackburn statement on Friday said they have received several high-calibre applicants but would not be rushed into making a decision.

With the speculation regarding Hughes' impending departure, the FA of Wales are remaining tight-lipped, saying they have received no formal approach but are believed to be setting up contingency plans to bring in a new manager as soon as possible, should Hughes jump ship.

John Toshack, who fiercely criticised Hughes and the Wales side after the disastrous 2-2 draw with Northern Ireland at the Millennium Stadium last week, is thought to be in the frame, as is Chester boss Ian Rush, who has emerged as a surprise candidate.