Kilmarnock are ready to stick to the Chelsea road to replace former manager Steve Clarke.

Killie owner Billy Bowie has been inundated with applications following Clarke's departure to Scotland — and will begin the interview process this week when he returns from holiday.

The Sun says Gus Poyet has emerged as a surprise contender to take over - but fellow former Chelsea man Roberto Di Matteo remains the favourite to land the job.

The Uruguayan is among a number of candidates the Rugby Park club are considering for their vacant manager's post.

Poyet has links to Kilmarnock after arranging for his son, Diego, to spend a couple of months training with the Ayrshire outfit last season when he was between clubs.