Hibernian players look set to return to pre-season training on Monday without a new manager at the helm.

Club officials indicated yesterday that there are no plans for an official unveiling today in the wake of reports the Easter Road board had narrowed their list of applicants down to four.

Everton have already given Alan Stubbs, their reserve team coach, permission to speak to Hibs. The former Celtic and Hibs No.2 Mark Venus is also believed to be on the shortlist to succeed Terry Butcher, who lost his job last week after presiding over the Edinburgh club's relegation to the Championship.