FORMER Saints boss Nathan Jones has reportedly emerged as a strong contender for the vacant Millwall job.

The South East London-based club are searching for a new manager having parted company with Gary Rowett last month.

Rowett had spent four years at the Den and departed with the club sat 15th in the Championship, feeling it was the right time to move on.

According to reports from the Telegraph, Jones, who only lasted eight league games as Southampton manager, has impressed during talks with Millwall.

The report also notes that Jones is considered a good fit for the club. Other candidates are in the frame, with further interviews set to take place this week.

The Welshman has also been linked with the Bristol City job after they sacked Nigel Pearson after a 2-0 loss to rivals Cardiff City.

READ MORE: Nathan Jones among favourites for vacant Bristol City manager job

Bookies have placed the former Luton Town boss' odds at 6/1 behind other early favourites John Eustace (13/8) and Rowett (5/2).

Jones is still awaiting his first job back in management since his Southampton sacking and had been among the early favourites for the Sheffield Wednesday role.

Should the Lions appoint the 50 year old by Saturday, Jones could be in the dugout when Millwall host Russell Martin's Saints this Saturday.

The two sides are meeting in the league for the first time since 2012, with Southampton currently sat in fourth and Millwall down in 18th, without a win in four games.