Dutchman Johan Neeskens has been installed favourite to become the next Socceroos coach by a leading bookmaking firm.

Sportingbet Australia released its market on Friday, with betting manager Bill Richmond saying the Barcelona assistant at $3.25 shaped as a more realistic contender than widely-tipped German Jurgen Klinsmann ($3.75).

"Klinsmann would most likely be based in Florida and you wouldn't think that would be a great scenario," Richmond said.

"Neeskens would be based in Europe and already has a great knowledge of the Aussie players having assisted Guus Hiddink at the World Cup."

In a tight betting market reflecting the lack of an outstanding contender following Dick Advocaat's decision to reject the job last week, six candidates are listed at under $10.

Former Liverpool manager and current Lyon boss Gerard Houllier is a $6 chance, Dutchman Pim Verbeek is listed at $6.50 and Barcelona manager Frank Rijkaard at $7, while former Iraq mentor Jorvan Vieira ($9) is also in the market.

"You'd have to consider Verbeek as a chance given that he's stated his interest in coaching in Asia," said Richmond.

"And Vieira did a sensational job with Iraq in the Asian Cup."

Sportingbet has even offered odds that former Socceroos boss Terry Venables - sacked as England's assistant manager during the week - could get his old job back.

Venables is a $51 chance.

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