Cottagers spread the net in boss hunt

Fulham caretaker Ray Lewington has confirmed the club are looking outside of Craven Cottage for Roy Hodgson's replacement.

Hodgson left Fulham earlier this month after being offered the chance to take charge at Liverpool and Lewington, who served as first-team coach under the 62-year-old, had been mentioned as a possible replacement.

But Lewington, who was in charge at Fulham from 1986-1990 before further caretaker stints in 1991 and 1994, insists he will not be in the hot-seat on a permanent basis again.

He told Sky Sports News: "We know that it is someone from outside. It is very hard to put people into the position of manager when you have been a coach.

"I think because Roy had such an impact on the club they need someone, a name, that can come in and take over.

"All the staff hope that whoever comes in, there will be a job for us."

Former England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson, experienced Premier League campaigner Alan Curbishley, Switzerland manager Ottmar Hitzfeld and USA's Bob Bradley have all been touted as possible replacements for Hodgson.

Aaron Hughes, meanwhile, is sad to see the back of Hodgson but confident a new man will be appointed shortly.

He said: "It is a big blow after what he did for us over the past two-and-a-half years, it is fantastic what he did for this club.

"It is understandable why a big club like Liverpool would come in for him. It is a big opportunity for him, we all wish him well and I'm sure he will go on and do a fantastic job.

"We have to just to concentrate on pre-season and our games and I'm sure the situation will be resolved as soon as possible."