Phillip Cocu 'interested' in Hibs job as Dutch legend emerges as Roy Keane alternative

Phillip Cocu is now the front runner for the Hibs managerial vacancy, according to a report.

The former Barcelona and PSV Eindhoven star could be heading to Easter Road after Shaun Maloney was sacked last week.

The Dutch legend - who has previously managed at Derby County, PSV and Fenerbahce - has made his interest known to the Edinburgh club, according to Scottish Express Sport.

The 51-year-old has a decent record as a manager, winning three Dutch titles during his time with PSV.

However, he has out of work since leaving Derby in late 2020.

Roy Keane has been linked with the vacancy in recent days.

The Irishman's camp expressed an interest in the role at the Leith outfit with the club's chief executive Ben Kensell and owner's son Ian Gordon spending time in England to talk to potential candidates this week.

Owner Ron Gordon has insisted that his club need an experienced boss - so Cocu could fit the bill.

The Dutchman took over at Derby in July 2019, following Frank Lampard's departure for Chelsea.

Enduring a challenging start, Cocu's side were boosted by the arrival of Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney and went on to compete for a place in the play-offs.

However, the Rams seemed to struggle without fans as the coronavirus pandemic left stadiums empty.

And after 11 games the following season, Cocu parted ways with the Championship side who sat bottom of the table.

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