Meanwhile, Championship managers are running out of time to finalise their January transfer window plans, and the competition for players is set to be fierce given the injury issues that have blighted the season so far. For now, here's all the latest news and transfer gossip from the Championship.
1. Barnsley no longer favourites to sign Balotelli
Barnsley are no longer the bookies' favourites to sign ex-Manchester City and Milan star Mario Balotelli, with 'any Brazillian club' now his most likely destination. Vasco de Gama have been heavily-linked. (Sky Bet) Photo: ISABELLA BONOTTO
2. Stoke sign Lonergan
Stoke City have snapped up veteran goalkeeper Andy Lonergan on a short-term deal. The journeyman stopper has had spells with the likes of Leeds United, Middlesbrough and Preston North End in the past. (Club website) Photo: Michael Regan
3. Allardyce 'wanted' Forest role
Ex-England boss Sam Allardyce is said to have been keen on taking the Nottingham Forest job, before Chris Hughton was appointed. Allardyce's last role was with Everton, where he won ten of 26 games in charge. (The Athletic) Photo: PAUL ELLIS
4. Ex-Boro boss critical of transfer backing
Ex-Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate has claimed he was treated well by the chairman, but insisted he didn't have the "full backing" in the transfer market in the build-up to his eventual sacking. (Greatest Game podcast) Photo: George Wood