Alan Pardew has had an advisory role in helping AFC Wimbledon search for their new manager.

The Dons are closing in on an appointment, with Wally Downes, Russell Slade and Kevin Nolan on the final shortlist for the job.

Former Crystal Palace and QPR midfielder Shaun Derry has also been interviewed this week and Wimbledon want to have someone in place before the weekend.

Pardew has helped Wimbledon during the recruitment process over the past two weeks, with the League One club using him as a sounding board.

The former West Ham and Crystal Palace manager, who was sacked by West Brom in April, was born in Wimbledon. He has not had a major say on who will succeed Neal Ardley but the Wimbledon board have leaned on his experience.

Pardew worked with Downes, who is a leading candidate for the role, when he was manager at Southampton.

Downes, 57, was a member of the Crazy Gang and made more than 200 appearances for Wimbledon as a player during nine years at the club.

Derry is also on the shortlist. The 40-year-old is currently a coach at Oxford United under Karl Robinson. He has previously had spells in charge at Notts County and Cambridge United.

Simon Bassey was in charge last night as Wimbledon lost 1-0 at Peterborough, but the Dons want to appoint a new manager before Saturday’s FA Cup tie at Halifax. Asked after last night’s defeat if his role has changed, Bassey said: “I am not sure. It is in the club’s hands. I do not know.”

Wimbledon are seven points from safety in the League One relegation zone.