West Ham boss David Moyes will appoint a new assistant coach with current No 2 Alan Irvine vacating his role.
In news that will arrive as a blow to Moyes, coach Irvine is taking the decision to step aside from his full-time duties as Moyes' right-hand man due to personal reasons.
West Ham's London location is understood to be a factor in Irvine's decision given his family are based in the north.
The 62-year-old, however, will be taking up a consultancy role with the Hammers next season.
Irvine is one of the most respected coaches in British football and his departure leaves a significant hole in Moyes' staff.
Sportsmail understands that former Scotland international Billy McKinlay is among the contenders to replace Irvine.
The 52-year-old worked under Moyes during his first spell in charge at the London Stadium. However, there are understood to be at least two other contenders for the position.
McKinlay, who has held coaching roles at Fulham, Watford, Real Sociedad and Sunderland, is available after leaving his position as Michael O'Neill's assistant at Stoke in April.
Moyes and Irvine worked successfully together last season, leading the club to Europa League qualification and a record Premier League points haul.