Hunt is on for new Wolves manager

Wolves owner Steve Morgan today began the search for a new manager as sacked former boss Mick McCarthy declared he was leaving the club with his head held high.

Alan Curbishley, formerly of Charlton, has emerged as the firm favourite to take the helm at Molineux after 53-year-old McCarthy was forced out the door following a dismal run of results that has left them in the relegation zone.

After news of his sacking broke yesterday, the ex-manager spent the day at the club's Compton Park training ground seeking out every member of staff to say his goodbyes.

Staff were in tears as McCarthy departed after a five-and-a-half year spell during which he secured promotion to the Premier League and became the first manager to keep them there.

Speaking as he left Compton Park last night, McCarthy said he was leaving with his head held high. "Of course it is emotional," he said.

"I have left a lot of very good friends in there. I have had a fantastic five and a half years with more happy memories than sad. I am just sad that I left on a bad note. I want to thank everyone for their support over the years," he added.

McCarthy was told his contract was terminated by chief executive Jez Moxey at Compton Park yesterday. The ex-Republic of Ireland boss who is expected to get a £1 million payout, then delivered the news to the players before they started training with assistant Terry Connor.

Speaking from Europe where he is skiing, Morgan said: "Mick's a good guy and the decision was taken extremely regretfully but results have not been good enough this season."