Frank Lampard nearing a return to management as new Coventry head coach – with the Championship side increasingly confident in securing the former Chelsea boss

Coventry are increasingly confident of appointing Frank Lampard as their new manager in time for Saturday’s clash with Cardiff.

The former Chelsea and England midfielder was targeted by owner Doug King following the sacking of Mark Robins three weeks ago, but the process has been exhaustive, with Lampard one of a number of candidates interviewed.

Though there remain some hurdles to be cleared before a deal is sealed, Lampard is edging towards a comeback in management, more than a year after his short-term spell at Chelsea ended.

Mail Sport understands the 46-year-old, who has managed Derby and Everton as well as his two stints at Stamford Bridge, would become one of the highest-paid managers outside the Premier League.

Though he was always high on King’s list, the Sky Blues owner was persuaded to look closely at other candidates before moving ahead with his preferred one. The Lampard deal has also been held up by negotiation over his backroom staff, with Lampard keen to bring in his own team.

The club have been searching for a new head coach since Mark Robins was sacked after seven years at the helm earlier this month

Sky Blues owner Doug King has long been intent on bringing Lampard to the club