Rafa Benítez is the surprise name featuring prominently on the list of managers drawn up by West Ham United as possible replacements for David Moyes, whose short-term contract has not been renewed despite him fulfilling his task of keeping the club in the top flight.

West Ham plan to hold talks with Benítez if Newcastle United grant them permission to speak with their manager.

As well as the Newcastle United manager, candidates for the job also include Marco Silva and Manuel Pellegrini. Paulo Fonseca, the Shakhtar Donetsk coach, was also under consideration and held talks with West Ham on Monday, though it is thought that he has since decided to stay in charge of the Ukraine club.

Silva appears destined to replace Sam Allardyce at