Iron gaffer shortlist down to 4

The Iron appear to be edging closer and closer to appointing a new gaffer – and it’s been revealed that they’ve narrowed down their choices to just 4.

It is also thought that these will be the candidates that the board will bbe interviewing for the vacant manager’s position here in North Lincolnshire.

There has been much frenzied speculation as to who will be lucky enough to get the Scunny job – with all concerned wanting the process over and done with as quickly as possible.

Chairman Steve Wharton did definitely confirm that there were 4 names on their shortlist and that it involved managers both in and out of work.

It is also thought that not on this is list is the early bookies’ favourite – Brian Laws: despite his connection with the club and his friendship with Wharton.

Followed with much speculation throughout today – the names on the shortlist are though to have been, (in no particular order)…

1) Mixu Paatelainen

The most left-field of the choices, and it was claimed in today’s Daily Express that the Iron have made an official approach for the Finnish manager of Kilmarnock.

Having not been in the betting at all originally – he has progressively significantly tightened to now be just 7/2 with Victor Chandler.

Famoulsy referred to in a classic Phoenix Nights sketch – is very highly rated North of the border and has seen himself back heavily recently by Iron fans.

2) Phil Parkinson

A surprise choice, but has sufficiently tightened – with many early outside bets going on the ex-Hull man, who’s still thought to have a house in the area.

Did wonders at Colchester, okay at Charlton – but struggled badly at Hull. Now though to be available at an interesting 10/1 with bookmakers.

3) Alan Knill

Despite Bury seemingly desperate to keep him and the Shakers being 2nd in the table, the ex Iron centre-half is still the odds-on favourite to take the job.

Indeed, the former Rotherham gaffer is available at just 3/5 on the internet to be Baraclough’s replacement.

Done two decent jobs in difficult circumstances – although completely inexperienced at this level.

4) Danny Wilson

Another ex-Iron player, albeit only for a brief loan spell as a midfielder in the mid 80s.

Also available at 10/1 – the man who took Barnsley into the Premier League is currently a free agent having left Swindon earlier this season.

Sides reknowned for playing good football, although he is unlikely to be top of any Iron fans’ list.


It remains to be seen as to who actually will get the Iron job – but it promises to be full of twists and turns no matter what happens!