We recently wrote that Margaret Mountford was leaving The Apprentice and today is has been reported that soccer boss Karren Brady, is favourite to take over the role.

The Birmingham City managing director already participates on the show during the interview stage, when she vets the hopefuls and passes her findings back to sir Alan Sugar.

An insider told The Sun: “Karren is as astute as Margaret – but with added sex appeal.”

Sir Alan’s adviser Nick Hewer has said he would be happy if either Karren or Celebrity Apprentice contestant Michelle Mone got the job.

He said: “I like them both very much. I’d be very happy to work with either of them.”