Sean Dyche has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Ange Postecoglou at Nottingham Forest, with bookmakers installing the former Burnley and Everton boss as the overwhelming favourite for the job.

According to Betfair, Dyche’s odds have been cut to 1/2 to take the reins at the City Ground, as pressure mounts on Postecoglou following a dismal run of results.

It’s been fewer than 40 days since the Australian succeeded Nuno Espirito Santo, but his tenure is already hanging by a thread. Forest have failed to win any of their seven matches under his leadership, drawing twice and losing five — including humbling home defeats to Sunderland and Danish side Midtjylland. In that stretch, they’ve conceded 15 goals.

In the Premier League, Forest’s numbers are equally concerning: the team ranks third-lowest for expected goals (3.28) and second-highest for expected goals conceded (7.33). After finishing seventh last season, the Reds now find themselves languishing in 17th place, hovering just above the relegation zone.

Club owner Evangelos Marinakis is reportedly considering his options after the 2-0 defeat to Newcastle before the international break — a match described by insiders as a potential turning point for Postecoglou’s future.

Dyche tops the shortlist

At 54, Dyche is the bookmakers’ clear favourite to return to management. Out of work since leaving Everton in January, the former defender has deep connections with Forest, where he began his playing career as a youth. He still lives in the area, and could bring trusted lieutenants Ian Woan and Steve Stone — both former Forest players — back with him if appointed.

Crucially, Dyche’s availability means Forest would avoid paying compensation, a major plus after recently settling payouts for both Nuno and potentially Postecoglou.

Other names in the frame

Behind Dyche in the betting, Graham Potter sits at 5/1 after his short spell at West Ham, while Steven Gerrard shares the same odds following his decision to turn down a Rangers comeback. Marco Silva (12/1) and Mauricio Pochettino (20/1) are also listed, though the latter is considered an unlikely option given his focus on next year’s World Cup cycle.

Betfair spokesperson James Mackie explained:

“With speculation mounting around Ange Postecoglou’s position after a difficult start at Nottingham Forest, he’s currently 2/5 to be the next Premier League manager to leave. Sean Dyche is the 1/2 favourite to take over, with Graham Potter and Steven Gerrard both at 5/1 as the next most likely candidates.”

For now, Forest’s hierarchy is keeping its cards close to its chest — but unless Postecoglou sparks an immediate turnaround, Sean Dyche could soon be heading back to where his football journey began.