ONE of the leading contenders for the vacant Blackburn Rovers hotseat is a target for two other clubs – but has made Ewood Park his number one choice.

Rovers officials have identified Keith Hill as a potential replacement for the departed Paul Lambert.

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But they could face competition for the experienced Rochdale boss.

Charlton Athletic, who are newly relegated from the Championship, and another unnamed League One club are both interested in Hill.

But it is understood the 47-year-old would set his sights on a return to Rovers if he were to leave Rochdale for a second time.

Hill came through the club’s ranks and made 113 appearances at Ewood before signing for Plymouth Argyle in 1992.

The former defender hung up his boots in 2003 before moving into management with Rochdale in 2006.

Hill has led Rochdale to two promotions from League Two during his two spells at Spotland and, in the past two seasons, to the club’s record league position and points total in League One.

Rovers have also given consideration to managers including Hibs’ Alan Stubbs, Wycombe Wanderers’ Gareth Ainsworth, Hartlepool United’s Craig Hignett, and former Leeds United and Rotherham United boss Neil Redfearn.

Neil Warnock, who has yet to confirm whether he will remain at Rotherham, has also been discussed by the club.

And last night Warnock, who wants to achieve a record-breaking eighth career promotion next season, was installed as the new favourite for the Ewood post by bookmakers.

Despite having a shortlist in place Rovers have yet to start the interview process. They will do so once given the go-ahead by owners Venky’s.

On Friday the club will announce season ticket prices as well as its retained list.

Rovers officials have spoken to assistant manager Alan Irvine and first-team coach Rob Kelly about the future of the eight first-team players who are out of contract in the summer.

Outgoing boss Lambert confirmed he would have no input on deciding whether Simon Eastwood, Tommy Spurr, Matt Kilgallon, Chris Taylor, Lee Williamson, Simeon Jackson, Chris Brown and Nathan Delfouneso would be handed new contracts.

He said: “I’ve told the club I want do it because I think it’s unfair. I think it’s unfair on the players and I think it’s unfair on the club.

“I know what I think of the lads but I don’t want to put myself in that situation. It’s unfair on the players and it’s unfair on the new manager.

“I think the club has to sort it out, which I’m pretty sure they will.”

Before his departure Lambert also put in place the bulk of Rovers’ pre-season programme. It is expected to be announced in the next week.