Hereford United’s board of directors want a new management team in place early next week after terminating boss Simon Davey’s contract on Monday.

Davey and his assistant Andy Fensome have left the club after just 104 days with United bottom of League 2 after what was described by the directors as an ‘unacceptable’ start to the season.

More than 20 prospective managers have already thrown their hats into the ring.

Chairman David Keyte and vice-chairman Tim Russon have some hard work to do to ensure the right choice.

The bookies have made Bulls legend Jimmy Harvey their favourite but, while the former Morecambe boss would have his backers among the fans, his lack of recent experience of League football may count against him.

Another former Bulls midfielder Keith Downing, who has been quoted at 12/1 did a fine job in keeping Cheltenham in League 1 a couple of seasons back.

And ex-United striker Steve Guinan, who has completed all of his coaching and management qualifications, has also emerged as a contender.

Guinan was among the interested onlookers at Tuesday night’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy defeat by Exeter.

Although he was possibly simply running the rule over Hereford for his current employers Northampton Town, who face Hereford on Saturday week, he clearly, at 34, is looking for the next phase in his career.

Other experienced hands such as Gary Peters, Martin Foyle, Jim Gannon, Paul Hart or Peter Jackson - among the vast array of out-of-work managers - have been touted as possible replacements for Davey.

Colin Addison might even be persuaded to lend a helping hand.

Meanwhile, caretaker-boss Jamie Pitman will take charge of Saturday’s visit of League 2 leaders Port Vale.

Visit herefordtimes.com to vote in our on-line poll on Hereford’s new manager.