And it was the timing of Hull skipper Ashbee's move disappointed his former boss Nigel Pearson.

BBC: Hull's Ian Ashbee joins ex-boss Phil Brown at Preston

Michael Owen is included in the starting line-up for Newcastle , with caretaker-manage Nigel Pearson making five changes.

BBC: Premiership clockwatch

He took over at Leicester from Nigel Pearson in July, who left his post to manage relegated Hull City.

BBC: Leicester City sack manager Paulo Sousa

Foxes manager Nigel Pearson was rewarded for making four changes from the side that lost 3-1 at Ashton Gate, including recalling Howard and Fryatt.

BBC: Leicester 3-0 Sheff Wed

Newcastle United have given the green light for their coach Nigel Pearson to work as assistant coach to whoever is in charge of the Under-21s.

BBC: SPORT | Football | Internationals | Man City and FA face Pearce talks

Under new manager Nigel Pearson, the Foxes returned to the Championship at the first time of asking and have made an impressive start to the new campaign.

BBC: Mandaric denies talk of takeover

Retired RAF Group Captain Nigel Pearson resigned as president of the RBL's Shropshire branch six days before Remembrance Sunday this year, in protest at this new direction, saying the plans are "crazy".

BBC: News

Among the favourites to replace Southgate is former Celtic boss Gordon Strachan, who has been out of work since leaving the SPL side in May, while other names linked are Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson and former Newcastle and Blackburn manager Graeme Souness.

BBC: Southgate decision made weeks ago