Keith Hill has been installed as favourite for the Carlisle United manager's job as the Blues get closer to a decision on Chris Beech's successor.

The former Rochdale, Barnsley, Bolton and Tranmere boss is now Evens with Sky Bet for the top job at Brunton Park.

Hill is understood to be a serious contender as the Brunton Park hierarchy enter a third week since Beech's sacking.

Club bosses have been meeting candidates as they look to reach a decision at a time United sit third bottom of the Football League.

Hill, who was Beech's boss at Rochdale, was last at the helm of Tranmere, leading the Wirral club to the League Two play-offs last season before being sacked.

The 52-year-old also took Rovers to the Papa John's Trophy final.

Hill's experience of achieving promotion twice with Rochdale on a small budget could appeal to United's decision-makers.

Others thought to be in the running include Keith Millen, the former Bristol City boss.

The 55-year-old - a former Watford team-mate of United director of football David Holdsworth - has also coached at Crystal Palace, MK Dons and managed Swedish side Orgryte.

He is 5/1 second favourite while John McGreal, who is said to have pulled out of the running, is 6/1.

Paul Simpson, the former Blues boss who left Bristol City last week, is 8/1 and it remains to be seen whether United will make what would be a popular choice by trying to bring the Cumbrian back to Brunton Park.

Gavin Skelton remains in caretaker charge after three games at the temporary helm, while other names linked with the position include Jim Bentley, Gary Caldwell and Graham Coughlan.

Bentley is 8/1 with bookies ahead of ex-United skipper Danny Grainger at 12/1.