Three big-name coaches are being pushed by Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich's closest allies as they consider their options after the dismissal of Avram Grant.

The Times says Eugene Tenenbaum has told the owner that Chelsea need a strong manager to regain control of the dressing-room, leading him to champion the cause of Guus Hiddink, the Dutch coach of Russia. As well as an impeccable CV, Hiddink has a reputation as a disciplinarian and enjoys a good relationship with Abramovich.

Eugene Shvidler, another of Abramovich's key aides, has mentioned Dick Advocaat, another Dutchman, whose stock is high after leading Zenit St Petersburg to victory in the Uefa Cup final.

Blues chief executive Peter Kenyon is talking up the credentials of Mark Hughes. As well as being impressed with Hughes's work at Blackburn Rovers, the chief executive is also acutely aware of the need to appease the fans and Hughes was a popular player during his three-year stay at the club in the 1990s.