Former Derby County and Sheffield Wednesday midfielder John Harkes is in a strong position for the head coaching job with the New York Red Bulls.

The 42-year old has the MLS knowledge to take the helm at the internationally-owned franchise and already has experience as an assistant manager at the club.

Harkes was number two to Bruce Arena prior to the 2007 bust-up between coach and club and never got the chance to be groomed for the head role.

But now, with the departure of Juan Carlos Osorio, he has a new opportunity to be installed in the position despite good opposition.

However, current interim manager Richie Williams must be in pole-position and former Germany and Bayern Munich boss Jurgen Klinsmann has also been touted as a possibility.