Magpies in shock link for Sheridan

Photo: Darren Robinson

John Sheridan

SPECULATION linking Athletic's John Sheridan with the vacant manager's position at Sky Bet League Two side Notts County was thrown sharply into focus today when BBC Radio Nottingham indicated that the switch will happen 'in the next few days'.

Highly-respected commentator Colin Slater reported the news shortly before 9am this morning, after which a BBC Radio Nottingham Tweet read: "#notts expected to appoint #oafc boss John Sheridan as their new manager in the next few days."

The Magpies ­- who finished in 17th place in the fourth tier last season ­- are known to be on the look-out for an experienced candidate having gone through six managers in little over 14 months since Shaun Derry left Meadow Lane.

Club chairman Ray Trew is a fan of Sheridan's, and was believed to be interested in pursuing the former Republic of Ireland international star when he was in charge of Newport in late 2015.

Sheridan certainly appears to be hot property at present ­- he has also been linked with managerial jobs at Bolton and Leeds in recent weeks.

It is hardly surprising given the brilliant job Sheridan (pictured) did in rescuing Athletic from the drop into the fourth tier last season.

He returned to SportsDirect.com Park in January following David Dunn's departure, guiding the club to nine wins and six draws from 22 games to dispel relegation fears with a couple of fixtures to spare.

A Sheridan switch to Meadow Lane would shock many, given that County are currently up for sale and have been hit with a transfer embargo due to unpaid bills.