While manager sackings are certainly increasing, 6-game spells are far from common, but that’s just what happened to Troy Deeney at Forest Green, as he received his marching orders just a month into his tenure. While the Green Devils may have swung the axe faster than normal, a winless streak coupled with a media tirade against his players, stating there were “too many babies” in the squad, let alone a newly-delivered four match touchline ban and fine for improper language and threatening behaviour, certainly backed up their choices. Deeney, who was renowned for his career at Watford, has been player manager during this stint, but his performances were a far cry from his Premier League heroics back in the day. So, with the club now sitting 23rd in the league and firmly in the relegation zone, who do the next Forest Green manager odds might the club call upon to come and save their season.
With five names on the bookies shortlist and a need to quickly fill the void that is currently being handled by Dan Connor, the goalkeeping coach, let’s see who could be next in the hotseat according to BetVictor, at the time of writing. At 14/1* with a £10 bet paying £150 is Lee Johnson, who’s recent run at Fleetwood Town lasted just 4 months till the end of 2023. Next up is Lee Bowyer, with odds of 8/1* and paying £90 on a £10 wager, however after ending an unimpressive stint at Birmingham City, is currently acting manager of the Montserrat national team, so might be a hard man to pin down. Third in the list if Michael Flynn, where a £10 bet would pay £70 at odds of 6/1*, who is now available after being sacked by Swindon Town just a week ago. In second is Steve Cotterill at 5/4*, with a £10 wager returning £22.50, who managed Shrewsbury Town for 2 and a half years until mid-last year, who could bring experience of League One football to Forest Green, a clear ambition of theirs to reach. In pole position, just slightly ahead, is Gary Bowyer, at odds of 11/10* with £10 paying £21 if successful, who was most recently manager at Dundee. Despite leaving Dundee in frosty circumstances, his time there saw them promoted back to the top division and deliver over a 50% win rate, with only his clash with the club’s hierarchy dictating his exit.
So with several big names to choose from and the club desperate for a win, with none since October 2023, can they secure a name before their next games against Accrington Stanley this weekend and then fellow relegation battler Colchester on the 3rd Feb. With just 19 points from 27 games and 8 points to safety, Forest owner Dale Vince has a lot to consider before he makes his next move. Until more news surfaces or a new name appears, keep an eye on our Forest Green next manager odds ahead of the games this weekend, as League Two football betting kicks off this Saturday at 3pm.
*All odds are correct at time of writing and are subject to change.
