Gary O’Neil has reportedly turned down the opportunity to return to Wolverhampton Wanderers for a second spell as head coach. 

According to The Athletic, O’Neil has withdrawn himself from the hiring process after holding initial talks with the West Midlands club. 

It is said the 42-year-old did not feel the opportunity was right for him at this time. 

Wolves sacked Vitor Pereira on Sunday following a disastrous start to the Premier League season. 

The Old Gold are at the bottom of the table after losing eight of their 10 fixtures and registering just two points. 

O’Neil was appointed as Wolves’ head coach in 2023 after Julen Lopetegui left due to disputes with the board. 

The Englishman led the club to a 14th-place finish in his first season, but was dismissed from his role in December last year following a dismal run of results. 

The Midlands side could appoint Erik ten Hag, with the club discussing the Dutchman internally and expressing an interest to hold talks. 

Rob Edwards is also in contention for the job, while Michael Carrick has been linked as well. 

Edwards is currently managing Middlesbrough, who are flying in the Championship at the moment. 

Carrick is available for hire after being sacked by Boro following a 10-placed finish last season. 

Wolves haven’t won a top-flight game since beating Leicester City on April 26. 

Whoever is appointed, the new boss will face a massive challenge to keep the club in the Premier League.