Sam Allardyce has been linked with becoming the manager of Blackburn, who look set to lose Mark Hughes.

According to Sky Sports News, the former Newcastle and Bolton boss has cut short a family holiday in Spain, as speculation mounts over a possible return to management.

Allardyce has emerged as the front-runner to succeed Hughes, should he elect to quit Ewood Park for either Manchester City or Chelsea.

Hughes has 'reluctantly' been granted permission to speak to City but it is understood that the former Wales boss is favoured by more than one key figure in the Chelsea boardroom.

If Hughes does indeed quit the North West outfit for neighbours City then Allardyce, who has made no secret of his desire to return to management, would seemingly fit the bill for Rovers.

However, should Hughes reject City and eventually move to Chelsea then Allardyce could also become a leading contender for the Eastlands job.

Steve McClaren and Paul Jewell are two other names to have been linked with Blackburn in the event of Hughes' departure.

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