Paul Hart in talks to be Hull City manager as Iain Dowie's hopes fade

Paul Hart has emerged as a leading contender to become Hull City's new manager. The experienced 57-year-old, who has had stints in charge of Portsmouth and Crystal Palace, has held talks with Adam Pearson, Hull's former chairman who is now head of football operations. However no appointment will be made until a severance deal is agreed with the outgoing Phil Brown. Gary Speed, currently assisting Kevin Blackwell at Sheffield United, is another name on Hull's shortlist but is understood to be unsure about accepting the challenge. Iain Dowie, who stepped in when Brown was placed on gardening leave in March but failed to prevent the club being relegated from the Premier League, wants the job but is now considered an outside candidate.