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During Mark Dolan's TalkTV programme today, his guest revealed who he thought should run against Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to stand as an MP. The move follows news that Burnham has been cleared to enter the selection race for the Makerfield by-election - a seat being vacated specifically to facilitate his potential comeback.

Appearing on TalkTV, Reform Defector Simon Danczuk said Maggie Oliver, who lifted the lid on the Rochdale grooming gang cover-up, should stand against Burnham. Danczuk, who was once a Labour MP, also told viewers there is a "real arrogance" about Burnham putting himself forward.

Dolan said: "I am just wondering odds-wise if Burnham's chances of winning this seat will be based on his local profile. What do we think - 70/30 in his favour? It's not quite 50/50, is it?"

The guest agreed and said he thought the betting odds for Burham were "just in his favour".

When asked who should run against Burnham, Danczuk suggested: "I think they need a good local person, and I think Maggie Oliver would be great because she is from Greater Manchester.

"If not Maggie, then a local person who has got integrity, who is well sought after in the local area. The last candidate, I can't recall his name, but I think he has just been elected as a local councillor. He seems like a good candidate."

Burham said yesterday, when announcing his plans to stand in the by-election: "I grew up in this area and have lived here for 25 years. I care deeply about it and its people. I know they have been let down by national politics."

Sonia Sodha, former senior advisor to Ed Miliband, told Sky today: "I think if anyone can win in that seat, it's Andy Burnham - he's from the local area [and] he's hugely popular in Greater Manchester. So if he doesn't win, I'm not sure anyone in Labour can."