McMahon focused on success

Caretaker manager John McMahon insists speculation over Gary Peters' permanent successor in the Shrewsbury Town hotseat will not distract him from the job of winning matches.

See also: Vote in our Shrewsbury boss poll

The race to land what is now regarded as one of the plum jobs in the lower leagues has reached fever pitch, with the club receiving 60 to 70 applications.

There were reported sightings of Micky Adams and Mike Newell at the new stadium on Oteley Road yesterday, while I understand former Carlisle and Preston chief Paul Simpson has also held talks with managing director Rob Bickerton.

But McMahon, who has been handed the task of overseeing the two home clashes with Rotherham and Darlington on Saturday and Tuesday, is eager to focus on the football.

"There's people saying they've seen so-and-so at the ground but it's all speculation and I'll let them get on with that," he said."The game will be our only focus and we've just got to get on with it professionally."

McMahon has experience of this situation, having had a short spell as caretaker manager of Tranmere Rovers in October 2003.

He took the reins when Ray Matthias left the club, filling in until the appointment of Brian Little less than two weeks later.

Thumping

During that time he led his side to a 2-1 win at home to Wycombe, but also suffered a 3-1 defeat at Luton and a 6-0 thumping at Plymouth.

"I introduced a lot of kids who were at Tranmere and made a few changes that might have been a bit rash, but you learn from the experience," he recalled.

"We've got two similar games this time, because Rotherham are in fifth place and Darlington are third.

"Both are tough games, but we're at home in front of our own fans, who have been fantastic this season.

"You can't blame them for voicing their opinions when it hasn't gone well and we are aware of that. We just hope they will come out and support us."

The process of finding a new manager is already well under way, with the list of names being linked with the post growing by the day.

Ex-MK Dons boss Martin Allen and former Stoke manager Gudjon Thordarson are both believed to have thrown their hat in the ring, along with Scotsman John Robertson, who was at Hearts and is currently in charge at Livingston.

Town legend Ian Atkins has been mentioned in some quarters, while other potential candidates include Bobby Williamson (Chester), Chris Casper (Bury) and Ronnie Jepson (Gillingham).