Ryan Giggs named on three-man shortlist to become Salford manager after Neil Wood sacking

Ryan Giggs has been named on a three-man shortlist to become the next manager of League Two side Salford City following the sacking of Neil Wood.

Earlier this week, former Manchester United U23 coach Wood was axed by Salford after they suffered a humiliating 5-1 home defeat to Tranmere Rovers on Boxing Day.

Wood, who replaced Gary Bowyer in May 2022, lead the Ammies to their highest-ever finish in League Two last season.

But the club, who are co-owned by Class of '92 members Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, Phil Neville, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt, and David Beckham, have struggled to replicate that run of form of late.

In fact, Salford currently sit 21st in the league table after picking up just six wins from a possible 24.

Salford confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that the process of appointing a new manager would commence "immediately" following Wood's dismissal.

And after assistant coach Simon Wiles stepped in for Friday’s 3-0 defeat to Grimsby, three names have emerged as favourites.

Dean Holden, who was sacked by League One outfit Charlton in August after picking up just one win from their opening six games, is said to be in the frame, according to a report from The Sun.

Former Grimsby boss Paul Hurst is also included on the shortlist alongside Salford co-owner Ryan Giggs.

It was reported back in September that Giggs was keen on becoming Salford's next manager, almost two years after stepping away from his post with Wales' national team.

Image credit: Getty

The 50-year-old said in a statement: "After much consideration, I am standing down from my position as manager of the Wales men's national team with immediate effect.

"It has been an honour and a privilege to manage my country, but it is only right that the Wales FA, the coaching staff and the players prepare for the [World Cup] tournament with certainty, clarification and without speculation around the position of their head coach.

"Through nobody's fault the case has been delayed. I do not want the country's preparations for the World Cup to be affected, destabilised or jeopardised in any way by the continued interest around this case."

At the time, Giggs was awaiting trial after being charged with controlling and coercive behaviour and assault against his ex-girlfriend and her sister.

Image credit: Getty

Last year, the jury in the trial of Giggs was discharged after failing to reach a verdict and in July this year, the allegations were dropped.