Taylor could be set for Lawn hot seat (From Stroud News and Journal)

Taylor could be set for Lawn hot seat

SHAUN TAYLOR has emerged as hot favourite to replace Alan Lewer at Forest Green Rovers.

The Bristol City development coach and former Swindon Town captain is regarded as one of the hottest young coaches in the game and is believed to be on a shortlist of eight candidates that have been invited to attend interviews at The Lawn this week.

Rovers director John Clapp is well aware of Taylor's coaching capabilities, having worked with the ex-Bristol City defender during his time as a director at Ashton Gate.

A relatively late arrival to the professional game, Taylor, 42, joined Exeter from Western League outfit Bideford Town, part way through the 1986/1987 season, at the age of 23.

It was from Exeter that Glenn Hoddle brought him to the County Ground for £200,000 for his services.

Taylor made his debut for Swindon in 1991. He quickly forged a solid defensive partnership with Colin Calderwood.

The 1992/1993 season proved to be Taylor's most successful at the club, as the Town won promotion to the Premier League.

After Calderwood's departure in the close season, Taylor took the captaincy for the Town's season in the Premier.

Taylor was sold to Bristol City for £50,000 in September 1996, where he now coaches.

His likely rival for the post is former Reading, Swindon, Shrewsbury Town manager Jimmy Quinn.

The ex Northern Ireland striker ended the season at Barry Fry's assistant at Peterborough and could replace Fry, who has quit.

Meanwhile, Forest Green are set to play in the Conference North next season after Altrincham beat Eastbourne Borough.

The relegated Nailsworth side are currently waiting to see if they will be reprieved if Northwich's new ground is ruled unsuitable on the May 31 deadline.