Betting suggests Norwich will approach Cardiff and Mackay soon

Cardiff have denied that they have been approached by Norwich for the services of Malky Mackay, but the betting suggests that it may only be only a matter of time before talks between the two clubs commence.

Mackay has instantly been installed as the 1/1 favourite, with Paul Lambert finally being confirmed as the new manager of Aston Villa after handing in a resignation at Norwich earlier in the week, which was initially rejected.

Mackay played more games for Norwich than any other club during his career and these 200+ appearances will certainly mean that he has ties to the club.

Meanwhile, the fact that he became the latest manager to fail to take Cardiff beyond the Championship play-offs this season may mean that the chance to take a job in the Premier League is hard to resist.

Mackay and Cardiff have distanced themselves from rumours so far and have been quick to state that they are yet to hear anything from Norwich.

Neil Lennon is the other name that has been linked with Norwich at this stage, with Celtic having strong ties with the Canaries, not only through Lambert but also chief executive David McNally.

Lennon is 6/1 to be the next Norwich manager, but Celtic will do everything to prevent such a move and although the manager would welcome a chance in the Premier League, he may hold out for a bigger opportunity.

Also prominent in the betting is another manager with Championship play-off experience in Chris Hughton.

Hughton is still in charge at Birmingham, but it seems only a matter of time before he lands a Premier League role, with West Brom another possible destination.