West Ham have reportedly drawn up an emergency three-man shortlist to replace Nuno Espirito Santo, but Hammers News can reveal one of the names being linked with the job is already ruled out.

With Daniel Kretinsky facing growing pressure to axe Nuno Espirito Santo following consecutive home defeats, the prospect of a managerial change is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore in east London.

Former Sun journalist Alan Nixon claims the West Ham hierarchy have identified Kieran McKenna, three-time Hammer of the Year Scott Parker and Rob Edwards as potential replacements should they decide to part company with Nuno.

Nixon reports that all three are “in the frame and behind the scenes checks have been done”, adding: “Nuno needs results quickly as Hammers need to bounce back first time.”

But Hammers News can reaffirm that Edwards is not being considered by West Ham, despite the latest speculation.

West Ham double down on Rob Edwards after shortlist claim

Hammers News previously put claims of an approach for Edwards to a leading source inside the club, who dismissed the suggestion as “nonsense”.

That is significant because Edwards had also been linked with the Hammers by Football Insider, which reported that preliminary contact had been made.

The latest denial from our source directly contradicts that suggestion and means West Ham supporters should be cautious – or relieved depending on your view – about taking Edwards’ place on the reported three-man shortlist at face value.

Two other names on Nixon’s list are considerably more familiar to the Hammers hierarchy.

Hammers News previously revealed that both Parker and McKenna were on Kretinsky’s shortlist when West Ham were considering their options following relegation from the Premier League.

The Czech billionaire ultimately backed Nuno to lead the Championship promotion campaign, believing continuity was the best option.

That decision is now coming under serious scrutiny.

Parker is a three-time Hammer of the Year who made 113 appearances for the club and has an impressive Championship promotion record, having taken Fulham, Bournemouth and Burnley into the Premier League.

Craig Bellamy could be West Ham’s wildcard

McKenna, meanwhile, established himself as one of the most highly regarded young coaches in English football during his time at Ipswich Town, leading the club from League One to the Premier League.

Both would represent different propositions for Kretinsky, but the fact they were already considered when Nuno’s future was debated in May suggests their names are not simply being thrown around because of the latest results.

There is another name Hammers News believes could become particularly significant.

We exclusively revealed last month that Craig Bellamy is highly rated inside West Ham and would welcome the opportunity to manage his former club when the circumstances are right.

Today we revealed that a source close to the situation has indicated Bellamy is open to the Hammers hotseat with the potential timing described as “ideal” should West Ham decide to make a change.

Crucially, Bellamy’s reported £700,000 release clause with Wales would not be viewed as an obstacle by West Ham.

The former Hammers forward has made a strong impression in international management and has a deep personal connection with the club. He also understands the expectations and identity of West Ham in a way that few potential candidates could.

Hammers News previously revealed that two more defeats at Cardiff and Blackburn would prompt a serious review of Nuno’s position by Kretinsky and the board.

For now, Nuno remains in charge and West Ham insist he is capable of delivering promotion.

But with replacement names circulating and alternative candidates already on Kretinsky’s radar, the hierarchy appears to have options should the situation deteriorate further.