STEVE Cotterill is not in the running for the City job, the Telegraph & Argus understands.

Cotterill has been one of the leading figures in the betting market to fill the head coach role at Valley Parade.

The 53-year-old, named League One manager of the year in 2015 when he won the title with Bristol City, is patiently looking for an opportunity to get back into management after being sacked by Birmingham in March.

He has been linked with a couple of clubs since his departure from St Andrew’s - but the T&A understands that he is not interested in the Bantams position.

Chairman Edin Rahic has made it clear that the owners will not rush to make a decision as they draw up a short-list to fill the vacancy left by Simon Grayson.

Former Brentford, Rangers and Nottingham Forest boss Mark Warburton remains the favourite with the bookmakers and has attracted 45 per cent of all bets. That has seen his odds slashed from 25/1 a week ago to 13/8.

Oddschecker spokesman George Elek said: “Last season was one to forget for Bradford fans and, having landed their prime target in Simon Grayson, not many people thought that they would be on the hunt again for a gaffer just months later.

“Warburton has a reputation for playing attractive football, which would surely endear him to the Valley Parade faithful.”

The search for a new boss is likely to extend into next week as Rahic and Stefan Rupp target someone who will buy into their policy of developing young players and not be reluctant to give them an opportunity in the senior ranks.

Rahic said: “If you want to be sustainable for the future, you need a proper youth academy.

“You want young players to have a chance to break through into the first team. Tyrell (Robinson) showed it, Cameron (Hawkes) started to show it. Reece (Staunton) and the others have a massive chance.”