Danny Murphy has shared with Goal his view that appointing Liam Rosenior as Fulham’s next manager would be “too much of a risk”, citing the former Chelsea boss’ disappointing spell at Stamford Bridge. The ex-Fulham midfielder also discussed the possibility of Frank Lampard making a return to west London after his impressive promotion campaign with Coventry City.

Fulham searching for a new manager as Marco Silva departs

Following Marco Silva’s decision to step down at the end of his contract, Fulham are now on the lookout for a new head coach. The Portuguese manager leaves Craven Cottage after a productive five-year tenure, during which he guided the team back to the Premier League and firmly established them as a stable top-flight side, winning 100 of his 229 matches in charge. His departure leaves a sizeable vacancy, with several names being linked to the role.

Rosenior among contenders but seen as a gamble

Liam Rosenior, currently out of work, has emerged as one of the candidates. The 41-year-old’s coaching reputation had grown through his time with Hull City and Strasbourg, but his short-lived tenure at Chelsea — lasting only 23 matches over three and a half months — has cast doubt on his readiness to take charge at Fulham. A former Fulham player himself, Rosenior spent four years at the club, and his past association has sparked speculation about a potential return.

When asked if such a reunion would make sense, Murphy, speaking exclusively to Goal via NetBet, said, “I think he'd jump at the chance. It would be a wonderful opportunity for him.”

He added, “I don’t think it’ll happen. I think Fulham will see it as too much of a risk because, although his spell at Chelsea started well, it ultimately didn’t work out. Fulham have done brilliantly under Marco Silva, becoming a comfortable mid-table Premier League side that plays attractive football, but bringing Rosenior in would be too big a gamble.”

Murphy continued, “I think Fulham will look for someone more proven at this level. Thomas Frank has ruled himself out, but there are still enough experienced Premier League coaches available compared to Rosenior — regardless of his ties to the club.”

Frank Lampard attracting attention after Coventry’s promotion

Another former Chelsea manager, Frank Lampard, is reportedly on Fulham’s shortlist following his remarkable success with Coventry City. Lampard guided the Sky Blues back to the Premier League after a 25-year absence, restoring his coaching reputation in the process. However, with plenty of work still ahead at Coventry, questions remain over whether the 47-year-old would consider leaving before experiencing the top-flight challenge with the club.

Murphy said, “I’d understand if another club wanted him. What he’s done at Coventry has been outstanding in such a short time. The football they play, the improvement in players, and his deep understanding of the Premier League after managing Everton and Chelsea all make him a strong candidate.”

He added, “However, I’d be surprised if Frank left now. He’s got Coventry fans behind him and has earned the right to lead them into the Premier League. Of course, things like job security and finances can influence decisions, but I think his loyalty will keep him there to see the challenge through.”

Murphy concluded, “If he manages to keep Coventry up, it would be an incredible achievement considering their budget and resources. They don’t have the kind of squad that’s been bouncing between the top two divisions. I think he’ll stay to finish the job – though, part of me would love to see him at Fulham. Sorry, Coventry fans.”

Who will Fulham appoint next?

While Lampard may prove difficult to lure from Coventry, betting odds indicate Fulham could turn their attention to Kieran McKenna, who recently led Ipswich Town back to the Premier League after several years in the Championship. For now, Fulham have time to make their decision, but they’ll want to appoint a new manager soon with the summer transfer window opening on June 15 — just four days before the 2026–27 Premier League fixtures are announced.