Brighton chairman Tony Bloom insists he has a number of candidates in mind as the search for a new manager begins.

Former Seagulls boss Steve Coppell has been linked with a return to the Withdean Stadium to replace Russell Slade, who was axed on Sunday.

But poker star Bloom is not showing is hand yet and will this week compile a shortlist of names while director of football Martin Hinshelwood takes temporary charge.

"It's so critical to get this decision right for the football club that it wouldn't be right to put a timescale on it," he said.

"I'd like to do it as soon as possible, but much more important is to make sure we have the right man.

"I have some candidates in mind and I've been inundated with calls from various people. It's now about going through the list, doping our due diligence and speaking to the potential candidates."