FALKIRK manager John Hughes is believed to be the front-runner to take over Coca-Cola Championship side Blackpool.

Former Blackpool manager Simon Grayson walked out on the club before Christmas to join Leeds United.

And there has been no permanent appointment made with Grayson's two former assistants in temporary charge for the time being.

Following the embarrassing FA Cup exit at the weekend to non-league Torquay, the club are under pressure to unveil a new manager - and Hughes is top of the wishlist.

The Falkirk boss has been made 3-1 favourite to get the job by the bookies. Hughes has been at Falkirk for six years during which time he has guided the club to two First Division titles, a Bell's Cup triumph and two CIS Cup semi-finals in the last three seasons.

He has, however, made no secret of his desire to try his luck in the Championship where his mate and former co-manager at Falkirk, Owen Coyle, is impressing with Burnley.

A spokesman for Blackpool said: "We have not spoken to anyone about the position.

"We are currently happy with the job Tony Parkes and Steve Thompson are doing."

Meanwhile, St Mirren midfielder Stephen O'Donnell has been referred to a specialist in a bid to cure his knee problem.

The 25-year-old, out of action since the end of August, made an attempted return to training in December only to break down again.

"Stephen had an appointment with a surgeon, but we don't know yet what the outcome is," said Saints boss Gus MacPherson.

"We are trying to get a second opinion to get to the bottom of the problem.

"If he requires surgery it will get done. It's very frustrating for him because he started the season well."