MICHAEL Appleton is capable of taking the Leicester City job on a permanent basis, according to Derek Fazackerley.

The pair worked together at Oxford United for three seasons, until the 41-year-old left in June to become the Foxes’ assistant manager.

But he will take charge of their Premier League clash with Swansea City tomorrow on a caretaker basis following Craig Shakespeare’s sacking on Tuesday.

United’s No 2, who has extensive experience coaching in the top flight with Newcastle United and Manchester City, was among those to wish Appleton well this week.

And Fazackerley believes the former U’s chief is equipped to handle a role as a Premier League boss.

He said: “I would think so.

“He’s worked in the Premier League before with West Brom and I’m sure that given the opportunity he’d be more than capable of doing the job.

“I just sent him a text. In situations like that every man and his dog will be contacting him to wish him luck.

“Of course working with him closely here that’s all you can do.

“If things go well then he might end up in the hot seat.”

He added: “How it will be viewed by the owners I don’t know.

“Their expectations are a lot greater than where they are in the league at this moment and they may well eventually look abroad, but in the meantime Michael has a good opportunity.”