Paul Lambert's decision to fill the vacancy at Aston Villa has left Norwich City seeking a new manager.

Having enjoyed a largely successful season back in the Premier League last time out, reports have claimed that the Carrow Road hotseat has already proved to be a tempting job for a number of managers.

With that in mind, Sports Mole brings you the five early contenders to take over from Lambert.

Malky Mackay

The current Cardiff City boss would be a popular choice among the Norwich faithful. The 40-year-old spent six years with the Canaries as a player and has been regarded as a club legend ever since. Having failed to guide Cardiff City to promotion to the top flight, it is believed that the Scottish boss would find it difficult to reject a return to Norfolk.

Odds: 7/4

Chris Hughton

There are very few Premier League jobs in recent months that Hughton has not been linked with. Nevertheless, the 53-year-old remains at Birmingham City - a club that he has been in charge of since 2011. Hughton has previously managed Newcastle in the Premier League and an opportunity to have a second crack is likely to appeal.

Odds: 5/2

Neil Lennon

Celtic have already warned Norwich that any approach for Lennon would be immediately turned down. Despite winning the league title last season, former Leicester City midfielder Lennon is reportedly eager to prove himself in the English Premier League. Whether or not Norwich would be able to afford his compensation fee remains to be seen.

Odds: 6/1

Steve Bruce

Bruce has been out of work since being sacked by Sunderland last November. Following his recent sabbatical, Bruce is said to be keen on making a return to management. Having spent three seasons with Norwich as player earlier in his career, Bruce has a decent knowledge of the club and the area - something that could work in his favour during an interview process.

Odds: 6/1

Lee Clark

Appointing Clark would be a gamble for the Norwich board. However, the 39-year-old impressed many people during his only managerial stint so far at Huddersfield Town. Another attraction for Norwich would be the fact that they would not have to pay any compensation to secure Clark's services.

Odds: 10/1