Charlton Athletic's winless league run was extended to 11 matches as they were beaten 1-0 by fellow strugglers Bolton Wanderers at the Valley.
The hosts failed to bring their worrying run of form to an end against a Bolton side that had only taken one point from their previous three Championship fixtures.
Sam Dalby's sixth goal of the season after 18 minutes was enough to condemn the hosts to a fourth consecutive league defeat and leave Charlton just one place above the relegation zone.
The nature of this performance and result could be enough to put the pressure on Addicks boss Nathan Jones, who has undoubtedly performed admirably during his time at the club - winning promotion from League One and keeping them in the second tier last season.
Should Jones and Charlton Athletic eventually part ways, we assess the managerial candidates who could potentially be in the frame to take over in the hotseat.
Next Charlton Athletic manager contenders
Rob Edwards
Rightly or wrongly, Rob Edwards' stock has taken a hit this year after being unable to spare Wolves of relegation from the Premier League before he was unexpectedly axed in the summer, despite making preparations for their campaign in the Championship.
Edwards won an array of plaudits at the start of his managerial career with Forest Green, took the bold plunge to join Watford which inevitably ends in tears before joining their local rivals Luton Town, who he guided into the Premier League.
His stint at Kenilworth Road soured dramatically following relegation from the top-flight, but Edwards demonstrated his man-management skills with a productive, albeit fleeting spell at Middlesbrough, who were second in the Championship when he decided to join Wolves.
Edwards could well be chomping at the bit for a return and see this as a club he can push towards the right end of the Championship table.
Steve Cooper
Steve Cooper will more than likely be extremely keen to be given the chance to impress following disappointing spells at Leicester City and Brondby.
He led Nottingham Forest to the Premier League during his time at the City Ground, before helping the club to preserve their Premier League status.
His style of football would be popular at the Valley should he be given the opportunity.
Paul Heckingbottom
Paul Heckingbottom could be a potential option if the Addicks are in the market for a manager with Championship experience.
The 49-year-old manager was dismissed by Preston North End back in September after the Lilywhites lost six of their first seven 2026/27 Championship games, and he may be keen to go straight back in at the same level.
He has a Championship promotion on his CV from his time at Sheffield United and he may feel as though he's still got plenty left to prove.
Gary Rowett
Gary Rowett is out of work following his departure from Leicester City at the end of last season.
The 52-year-old would provide a wealth of experience having managed more than 600 matches in the football league.
The chance to return to the second tier could be seen as an excellent opportunity by the much-travelled manager.
