Bristol Live has reported that Kevin Maher, the manager of Southend United, is a target for Bristol Rovers.
Following their decision to break company with Joey Barton last month, Bristol Rovers have started searching for a new manager. Since then, the Gas have been associated with several possible successors, but they haven’t yet announced who would take his position.
It will be hoped that some significant progress in the search for a new boss may be achieved as soon as possible. Another name has now been connected to the open position at Memorial Stadium.
Bristol Rovers are reportedly interested in Southend United manager Maher, who is well-known to the team’s supporters, according to a report from Bristol Live.
Prior to accepting the management position at Southend United in October 2021, Maher, 47, joined the coaching staff of the Gas in July 2019 and worked as an assistant manager under Barton, Ben Garner, Graham Coughlan, and Paul Tisdale.
He spent a significant portion of his performing career at Roots Hall, where he has grown incredibly popular. Maher has helped Southend through some difficult periods and currently has them ranked 15th in the National League.
Bristol Rovers appear to be connecting with more and more management candidates on a daily basis, and Maher has now become one of them. It does appear that progress is being made, though, as the article indicates that the shortlist will be assembled this week following preliminary discussions with a number of candidates.
It remains to be seen if Maher’s reported interest materializes into something more substantial, but Southend United should be keen to hang onto him. If a move had to be made, it could be difficult to entice him away given his standing at Roots Hall as well.
As of right now, Bristol Rovers are ranked fifteenth in League One. When the Gas play Reading on Tuesday night, Andy Mangan will be in command once more.
