Baker has been chairman throughout Town's time in the Football League

Cheltenham Town chairman Paul Baker says he wants the Robins' next manager to be an inspiring one for the club.

The League Two strugglers parted company with Martin Allen, who had been on gardening leave since October, by mutual consent on Friday.

Baker told BBC Gloucestershire: "The club has dealt with the situation thoroughly and reached a good agreement with Martin and his solicitors.

"We want to listen to what people have got to say and we want to be inspired."

The Robins are now looking for their seventh manager since they joined the Football League with Steve Cotterill at the helm in 1999.

Cotterill, who has since been Stoke and Burnley manager, is currently out of work, and Baker said he would be an interesting applicant.

"I'm not sure we would be his ideal choice," said Baker.

"The fans would expect us to talk to him but it would be hard for him to come back because in many ways he would be on a hiding to nothing. I wouldn't rule him in or out at this stage."

Baker confirmed that Cheltenham would accept applications until 1700 GMT on Friday, 18 December and that he hoped to have a permanent successor to Allen in place before the Boxing Day game at home to Bournemouth.

Arguably, he is favourite because he is in pole position Paul Baker on caretaker boss John Schofield

John Schofield has been in caretaker charge for the last eight games, and will take the side for the next two matches against Chesterfield and Burton Albion.

"John has conducted himself in a professional and workmanlike manner," Baker said.

"I've been pleased with his commitment and made some good loan signings. Arguably, he is favourite because he is in pole position."

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