James Fowler is optimistic that Kilmarnock can have a new manager in by early next week.
The Ayrshire side's head of football operations will start interviewing candidates for the vacancy in the coming days along with the Killie board.
And he says that, due to the high calibre of those applying, it's realistic to expect an appointment by Monday or Tuesday which will give the new boss a chance to prepare for the cinch Championship trip to Queen of the South on Saturday, January 8.
Fowler, who took Killie's 1-1 draw with Morton, said: “We will speak to candidates over the next few days. It’s probably handy not having a game this weekend as it gives us a breather.
“It would be ideal having someone in early to give them a full week of training if possible.
“I would like to think that will happen. These things are never straight forward, but there are enough good candidates interested in the post."
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