Manager 'turned down' chance to be considered for Notts County job

Derry City boss Ruaidhri Higgins reportedly turned down the chance to be considered for the Notts County job.

The Magpies are searching for a new head coach after Ian Burchnall left the club to take over at Forest Green Rovers. The board of directors have said the process could take "at least a couple of weeks" as they strive to find the right candidate.

A number of possible contenders have been mentioned, and Independent.ie reports that Higgins "was sounded out to see if he would be interested after being identified as a strong candidate". It is said that the 37-year-old would fit the bill based on the style and approach of his current team, who play in the League of Ireland Premier Division.

However, the report adds that Higgins, who used to be Republic of Ireland chief scout and analyst, is happy at Derry and decided not to explore the opportunity at Notts any further. He only signed a new four-year contract earlier this year.

Luke Tisdale is favourite to succeed Burchnall, according to bookmakers BetVictor, having just left his role as head coach of Coventry City under-23s after seven years at the club.

Mike Williamson is next on the list, having just led Gateshead to the National League North title as player-manager. The former Newcastle United defender has also been linked with the Hartlepool United job.

Burchnall departed Meadow Lane shortly after the team's promotion bid was agonisingly ended by Grimsby Town in their National League play-off quarter-final tie.

Grimsby take on Solihull Moors at West Ham's London Stadium on Sunday to decide who join champions Stockport County in being promoted to League Two.

Meanwhile, Notts' manager hunt has not stopped other business being done. Wing-back Tobi