Gould given the chance to rescue Cheltenham

Bobby Gould yesterday returned to management after taking over at the Second Division strugglers Cheltenham Town.

The 56-year-old has taken over from Graham Allner, who was sacked last Monday after a disappointing run of results which has left the Robins in deep relegation trouble. Gould, who will be in charge until the end of the season, has revealed that he applied for the job when Steve Cotterill left for Stoke City last May, only to see Allner given the opportunity instead.

The former Wales, Wimbledon and Coventry City manager said: "I applied last year but it went to Graham, but unfortunately it hasn't worked out for him. The opportunity for me arose again and I've accepted, and it's a challenge.

"We've got 20 games to try and accumulate enough points to stay in the division. You never get a job at an easy time, that's something I've learned from my time in football, so you accept it and get on with it," he said. Gould was one of five candidates who were interviewed for the vacant managerial position and the Robins' chairman, Paul Baker, felt his experience and knowledge shone through.

Baker said: "We were overwhelmed by both the number and quality of applications for the job. Choosing the new manager was a very difficult process and all five interviewees were extremely high-quality candidates. On balance, however, the board felt Bobby has the qualities needed by Cheltenham at this particular point in time.

"His vast experience, knowledge, contacts and motivational abilities will be a huge asset to us as we look to improve our league position and secure Division Two football."

Gould has enjoyed spells in club management with Cardiff City, Coventry twice, West Bromwich Albion, Wimbledon and Bristol Rovers twice. His finest hour came when he led Wimbledon to FA Cup success in 1988, when they beat Liverpool 1-0 in the final at Wembley.

However, it is 18 months since Gould was last involved in day-to-day affairs at a club after leaving Cardiff, but he will take charge of Cheltenham for the first time against Chesterfield at Whaddon Road on Saturday. Bob Bloomer, who took over as one of three joint-caretakers following Allner's departure, has been named as first-team coach.