3:42pm UK, Tuesday May 04, 2004

Colin Farrell is being tipped to replace Pierce Brosnan as James Bond.

The Irish hellraiser has replaced Van Helsing star Hugh Jackman at the top of the list of contenders to take over as 007.

Farrell: Bookies' favourite

Brosnan has publicly slated Farrell's chances, but the bookies have slashed the odds of the Alexander star landing the role to 2-1 after strong backing from his fans.

Warren Lush, of Ladbrokes, told the Daily Star: "He has the right image for Bond and a way with the ladies in real life. That seems to be part of the reason why fans want him."

Brosnan is due to play Bond one more time and starts filming in November.