The Scotland international left Ewood Park only three months ago, but is seen as a leading candidate to take over in the wake of Roy Hodgson's departure following Saturday's home defeat by Southampton, a result which left them on the bottom of the FA Premier League table.

Tony Parkes: A loyal Blackburn servant

"It's all hypothetical but I'm flattered to be spoken about in connection with the job. The funny thing is I've only just made it back to Scotland and then something like this comes along to test the water.

"I've never really hidden my ambition to become involved in coaching and management, but really I was expecting something later in may career," said Hendry.

Tony Parkes has been put in temporary charge by Blackburn and he wasted no time in confirming Hodgson had been sacked. The club had insisted the decision was taken by 'mutual consent'.

Rangers await approach

Rangers vice-chairman Donald Findlay has confirmed they are willing to discuss the situation if Blackburn make an approach.

"I have no reason to suppose Colin Hendry is anything other than committed to us, but I could understand a sentimental attachment to at some point return to Blackburn," he said.

Roy Evans: Another leading candidate

Hendry was a popular figure among Blackburn fans, and has no fears about beginning a managerial career with such a high-profile job.

"There's no time like the present, though I don't know what Blackburn are thinking at this stage. If I don't try management I'll always wonder and the question will never be answered," he added.

Former Liverpool boss Roy Evans and Football Association technical director Howard Wilkinson have also been linked with the Rovers job.

Tony Parkes: It's been a sad weekend

But there appears to be no chance of Kenny Dalglish returning to the club he led to the Premiership title as he is involved with a consortium trying to take control of Celtic.

Hodgson's assistant, Tony Parkes, has taken over as caretaker boss - a role he has filled on three previous occasions - but has already ruled himself out as a candidate for the vacancy.

"Tony is in charge of team affairs until a permanent appointment is made and we are very fortunate to have somebody of his ability to call on. Tony has the complete confidence of everyone at the club, espcially (club owner) Jack Walker," said Blackburn chief executive John Williams.

Parkes said it had been a "sad weekend" and the club had been plagues by injuries and debatable refereeing decisions this season.

"Roy wanted more time with the club but did agree that results had gone badly. Jack Walker wouldn't give him any more time. But I think Roy would like to make it known that he was sacked. He would never desert a sinking ship," he added.