FORMER Cheltenham Town defender John Brough is set to be appointed new Cirencester Town boss.

Chairman Steve Abbley whittled down an extensive list of managerial candidates down to a shortlist of former Shortwood boss and ex-Forest Green captain Alex Sykes and ex-Newport County and Forest Green captain Darren Jones, but went for Brough’s extensive managerial experience.

The 44-year-old was offered the job at the Corinium Stadium before Charlie Griffin was appointed in September 2016 and he led Cinderford Town to the Southern League title at the same level in 2015/16.

He has also managed Bishop’s Cleeve and North Leigh, along with a spell on the coaching staff at Hellenic League Lydney Town. Brough started his coaching career as head of youth at Cheltenham.

Keith Knight, Brough’s former assistant at North Leigh is expected to come in as his number two.

CIRENCESTER moved into the semi-final of the GFA Senior Cup with a 3-1 victory over Bristol City U 23s on Tuesday night.

City nosed ahead through Sam Bell, but Cirencester equalised in the second-half through a Mike Pook penalty. Jay Malshanskj nosed Town ahead and Pook grabbed a second from the spot after Toumani was upended.

Cirencester travel to Slimbridge on Saturday, 3pm.