Swindon close in on manager appointment

Swindon Town are reportedly very close to naming a new manager, with an appointment expected at the start of next week. The Robins have been searching for a new boss since the shock departure of Kevin MacDonald over a month ago but have seemingly found their man in Mark Cooper.

Before the betting was suspended caretaker boss Cooper was the hot favourite and is widely expected to be handed the job on a permanent basis. Cooper, a former Peterborough and Kettering manager, has overseen three matches at the helm, suffering a 1-0 defeat away to Peterborough on the opening day, before bouncing back with successive 1-0 victories over Torquay (League Cup) and Stevenage.

Cooper's popularity is rapidly rising at the County Ground, with many supporters appreciative of the attractive, passing style of football which he is employing. The 44-year-old will be gunning to lead Swindon to their third consecutive win on Saturday when they travel to Shrewsbury. Bet Victor have installed the visitors as the 11/8 favourites in the betting, while the hosts can be backed at 11/5. Alternatively a draw could be the way to go at 12/5. Meanwhile Swindon can be found at 10/1 to win promotion to the Championship come the end of the campaign.