WANDERERS are not basing their manager search exclusively on candidates that are currently out of work, The Bolton News understands.

The quest to find Keith Hill’s successor continued yesterday with applications still arriving at the UniBol from the UK and abroad.

A small group of managers have been earmarked already – a number which is thought to include Barrow's highly-rated boss Ian Evatt – but no formal interview process has yet begun and is not expected to do so this week.

Barrow have made no comment to reports that their manager could be on Bolton's wish-list and the Cumbrian club should have their promotion from the National League rubber-stamped today.

It may be that a decision is delayed until a playing budget can be finalised, and that may only happen once the club know for certain if the EFL are to introduce salary caps next season.

Wanderers are having to cut costs after dropping into League Two - a relegation which is estimated to cost the club around £1million - but they are keen to make a decision based on suitability for their new coaching structure, rather than on immediate availability or the prospect of compensation. As such, the club is ruling nothing out at the moment.

We have learned that pedigree names such as Gary Bowyer, Chris Powell and Simon Grayson have registered an interest in the job and are being considered. Another, ex-Burton boss Nigel Clough, remains the bookmakers’ favourite to take the job.

Ex-Bury boss Ryan Lowe has also been touted strongly over the last couple of days – although it is thought he would be one of the more costly options after leading Plymouth Argyle to promotion last season.

Fans have also voiced support for current Under-23s coach David Lee to be considered for a senior role next season, having worked at the academy for the last 12 years.

Wanderers are currently working on a retained list and could be in a position to announce which players are being offered new deals by this time next week. The process is not thought to hinge on an incoming manager.

Scholars are also being given their contract offers as the club continues its rebuilding efforts for next season.