WYCOMBE Wanderers boss Gareth Ainsworth is one of the names in the frame for the Blackburn Rovers manager’s job.

Rovers officials are keeping their final shortlist of possible replacements for Paul Lambert tight to their chests.

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But Blackburn-born Ainsworth, a lifelong fan of his hometown club, is a boss they have given consideration to.

The 43-year-old had two spells in caretaker charge of QPR before leading Wycombe to Football League safety in his first two seasons at the Adams Park helm.

Ainsworth, who started his playing career at Rovers, then guided the Chairboys to the 2014-15 League Two play-off final.

That led the former Preston North End, Wimbledon and QPR midfielder to being named the League Two manager of the year by the League Managers Association.

Ainsworth, who signed a five-and-a-half-year contract with Wycombe in January 2015, has made no secret of his desire to one day manage Rovers.

Speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph in October 2012 the one time Riverside Stand season-ticket holder said: “I never played for the club but maybe I could manage them one day.

“It would be my dream job. I’m obviously realistic and I know that I need to prove myself as a manager first.”

Ainsworth was yesterday installed as the new favourite for the vacant Ewood Park post by bookmakers Sky Bet.

Hibs manager Alan Stubbs, Rochdale boss Keith Hill, ex-Leeds United and Rotherham United manager Neil Redfearn, and Hartlepool United boss Craig Hignett are other managers who have come under consideration by Rovers.

But while the club has put a shortlist in place it is understood it is still subject to change.

Neil Warnock, who Rovers have discussed, could be become a free agent if he decides against extending his stay at Rotherham United.

It is understood the club is waiting for the green light from owners Venky’s to begin the interview process.