By Paul Holmes
May 26 2002

Stoke City look like landing Cheltenham's Steve Cotterill as their new manager ahead of Wimbledon after both clubs were given permission to speak to Cotterill by Cheltenham. Stoke senstationally sacked their previous manager, Gudjon Thorardson, days after he led them to a play-off victory over Brentford.

Cheltenham know they would face a battle to keep Cotterill following his miracle workings in lifting the Robins into Division 2 from Non-League on a shoestring.

Cheltenham chairman Steve Baker told the clubs official site that Cotterill was free to talk to the two clubs

"We recieved approaches from both clubs and gave permission for Steve to speak to them"

I can confirm that Steve is thinking over an offer to become manager of Sotke City"