Five has become eight in Rovers’ search for a new manager.

An extended interview process has been held, with Rovers’ initial shortlist having expanded following late expressions of interest in the role.

There could yet be further interviews, should Rovers look to speak with in-work managers, given that approaches would need to be made to their respective clubs, while follow-ups with those already spoken to isn't to be ruled out.

Rovers are keen to ensure a thorough process, after the initial interviews were concluded on Friday, with evaluations and recommendations having been sent to owners Venky’s.

The eight candidates are understood to have a range of experience in the game, with domestic and overseas options among them, as interviews were held both face-to-face and remotely.

The players are due back at Brockhall in mid-June, by which point Rovers will look to have a new manager in place following the departure of Tony Mowbray.

Carlos Carvalhal, who left his position at Portuguese side SC Braga, has been interviewed for the role, but also has interest from a club the Middle East.

The 56-year-old Portuguese coach remains favourite with the bookmakers as it approaches a third week since the departure of Mowbray.

Al Wahda have offered Carvalhal a two-year contract, though his preference would be for a return to England with Rovers, despite there yet being no offer.

Rovers are also in the hunt for a sporting director, and while less is currently known about that search, a manager is said to be the first of the two appointments to be made.

It comes as a part of a restructure of the footballing operations following the departure of Mowbray and last week his assistant Mark Venus.

Rovers have also a shortlist of candidates for the head of athletic performance position following the departure of Liam Mason to Newcastle United.

However, that search could be impacted by the incoming manager, with some candidates understood to be keen on bringing in their own coaching staff.

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