Former Arsenal and England midfielder Jack Wilshere has emerged as the leading candidate to take over as Luton Town manager, with the club’s board making him their top choice to succeed Matt Bloomfield, who was dismissed earlier this week.
The 33-year-old has already held discussions with the Hatters and is understood to be in advanced talks, with only final details of the deal left to be agreed.
Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens was also strongly considered, but Wilshere is now in pole position to land the job.
Wilshere’s most recent spell in management came at Norwich City, where he stepped in as interim coach for the final two games of last season following the departure of Johannes Hoff Thorup.
Despite being linked with the role permanently, the Canaries opted for Liam Manning, while Wilshere was also a candidate for the Plymouth Argyle post before Tom Cleverley was appointed.
Luton have endured a difficult start to life in League One, suffering five defeats in their opening 11 matches after consecutive relegations.
The club sees Wilshere as a young, ambitious manager capable of rejuvenating the squad.
Before moving into coaching, Wilshere worked as Arsenal’s Under-18 coach and was briefly considered for the club’s Under-21 role earlier this year.
As a player, he earned 34 caps for England and made 197 appearances for Arsenal, also featuring for West Ham United and Bournemouth.
