Macclesfield's John Askey moves into pole position to become Shrewsbury Town boss
Macclesfield Town boss John Askey has moved into pole position to become the next Shrewsbury Town manager.
Silkmen legend Askey, who led them to the National League title by 10 points last season, has shot to favourite in the run to succeed Paul Hurst, who completed his switch to Ipswich yesterday.
It is believed that Askey would be interested in taking over at Montgomery Waters Meadow.
Some betting sites have now closed the market for Shrewsbury's next manager. A move for Askey would require Town paying the National League champions compensation.
Askey, 53, has a 35-year association with Macclesfield. He spent 19 years there as a player, racking up more than 400 appearances.
He was given the freedom of Macclesfield earlier this month after guiding the side to a remarkable National League title – despite one of the division’s more modest budgets.
Askey is said to be similar to former boss Hurst in his quiet and reserved approach. Askey has enjoyed fine success with unearthing players from a lower level.
He was in charge of the youth team at Macclesfield when Town’s James Bolton progressed through the ranks. He also worked with another Shrews man, Arthur Gnahoua.
Former favourite for the role Hopkin quit Scottish outfit Livingston was this morning confirmed.
Hopkin won back-to-back promotions with Livingston, where he has been in charge in his first permanent role, since 2015.
Town chief executive Brian Caldwell admitted that Hopkin's 'incredible' achievements are of interest.
