United number two McClaren has been strongly tipped to take over from Harry Redknapp, with Sir Alex Ferguson admitting his right-hand man had received more than one approach to leave Old Trafford.

And with Ferguson’s own United future in doubt following his decision to sever all ties when his contract runs out next season, McClaren could be tempted to head for East London and his first taste of football management after successful spells as coach at United and Derby.

‘‘I don’t see any reason why Steve McClaren couldn’t be the next West Ham manager,’’ said ex-Hammers’ defender Parris.

‘‘He hasn’t managed a club as yet, but he seems to have all the right credentials and after being involved in the England set-up is highly respected.

‘‘If there was going to be a stumbling block it would be his lack of experience, but going for experience doesn’t always guarantee success.

‘‘He is a very good coach so there is no problem there and he has got into the habit of winning things which is always useful.’’

Parris also believes McClaren will have no problem dealing with the big-name players at West Ham such as Paolo di Canio and Frederic Kanoute and could also bring the best out of the young talent in Joe Cole and Michael Carrick.

‘‘With the set-up at Manchester United and England, he is used to dealing with not only big names, but also the young kids and maybe he can bring those young players at West Ham on a bit more,’’ Parris added.

‘‘I don’t think it will be too difficult for whoever takes over, Harry has laid the foundations and it will be up to the new man to take them on from there.’’

However, Curbishley still remains the favourite of several West Ham players with Minto the latest to add his voice to those in favour of the Charlton boss returning to the club where he began his career as an apprentice.

‘‘Obviously Alan Curbishley would be the favourite, I played under him at Charlton and he is an excellent coach, probably the best young English coach in the game.’’ Minto said.

‘‘Alan knows the club, he knows the history, and he has that rapport with the fans as well.

‘‘He has done excellently with Charlton and probably exceeded what they thought he could have done, so if we can get him it would be excellent, but I’m sure Charlton will be fighting tooth and nail to keep him.

‘‘In every way he has proved to be an excellent manager, and it is very difficult to be a good manager nowadays, so if we can get him that would be great.’’