Both of the leading candidates for the Norwich City head coach role, Dean Smith and Frank Lampard, are abroad and need convincing to take the job, according to reports on Friday morning.

Sky Sports are suggesting that both men remain unconvinced about taking the job, with further talks scheduled with Lampard and his representatives on Friday.

Lampard, who remains the bookmaker's favourite for the role, is currently in Dubai enjoying a short break whilst Smith has travelled to the US to reunite with his family.

The ex-Aston Villa boss was sacked as head coach of his boyhood club on Sunday and has reportedly held talks with the Canaries over replacing Daniel Farke in the dugout at Carrow Road.

Sky Sports reported on Thursday evening that Smith had been interviewed for the position and was impressive, boasting an in-depth knowledge of the squad, putting forward a clear playing style and culture.

Smith appears to be in America with his son in New York though, with a photo being posted on Twitter in the early hours of Friday morning. His son, Jamie, studies and plays football at North Carolina State University.

While talks could have been held over a video call, the emergence of the image while the former Brentford boss is making headlines in connection to the Norwich job has certainly got Canaries fans talking.

Norwich have spoken to Chelsea legend Frank Lampard about the post, with some reports suggesting he was on the cusp of getting the job. Kjetil Knutsen, coach at Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt, has also been touted with the role.

No announcement is expected from the club surrounding the appointment of a new head coach for at least the next 24 hours, possibly even 48.

They remain confident of having their new man in place ahead of the bulk of international players returning to Colney ahead of their next Premier League game against Southampton.