Appletons name wouldn't even be mentioned if he wasn't a former player, same goes with McInnes.
We need to stop with this whole sentiment thing when it comes to the manager, it didn't work with DM and it wont work with the next one.
If Appleton had never had played for this club, this board would be going crazy at the thought of him getting the job.
We need to get a proper manager in. There are plenty out there who deserve a crack at the job. I would sooner be looking at the likes of Paul Cook, the Barnsley boss and a few others before I contemplated McInnes or Appleton.
Like it or not, Hughton is the best name out there in terms of promotions, knowing the league, knowing how to get out the league and also has that premier league experience the club always bang on about.
Whether we can convince him to come would be a different matter.
I would love for the board to prove me wrong and look abroad for a boss, its worked with Wolves (granted they've had some help from mendes), its worked with Norwich. There are plenty of capable bosses in the top flight german league who would love a chance to manage in England.
We will know the clubs intentions this summer by the length of time it takes for them to appoint a new boss.
The one key factor I have taken already is that Shan has said hes been offered a coaching job if he wants it, now does that mean he will be involved in the first team or will he be returning to the under 23s? What if the new man in charge wants his backroom staff to be all his own men?
For me, I cant see past it being offered Appleton. That's why he is already here.