Following Robbie Fowler’s departure from Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah, there are questions over the ex-Liverpool forward’s managerial future.

With Tranmere Rovers still searching for a long-term head coach, the former striker may soon be in the running to take over at Prenton Park after reported interest in the post earlier this year.  

Nigel Adkins was appointed as interim boss after Ian Dawes was sacked in September and, with results still faltering, fans are wondering who will be selected for the role on a permanent basis.  

Here are five candidates who could be named as the next manager of Tranmere Rovers:

Robbie Fowler 

It was reported in April that the 48-year-old was interested in applying for the vacant managerial role at Tranmere following Micky Mellon’s departure. Fowler has been said to be keen to take a job in England, even putting his name forward for the Bradford City position two seasons ago only to be turned down for Mark Hughes. The former Premier League star has previously managed East Bengal FC, Brisbane Roar, and most recently Al-Qadsiah where he was controversially let go after an unbeaten start to the season.  

Joey Barton 

Recently sacked as Bristol Rovers manager, just days after calling Stevenage gaffer Steve Evans a “fat man” and a “weeble,” Joey Barton may be on the search for his next coaching role. The controversial Scouser guided Bristol Rovers to League One in the 2021/2022 season and staved off relegation the following year. The ex-Manchester City player was let go this week after only winning four matches from 13 in the league. He has also had previous League Two experience at Fleetwood Town where he reached the play-offs but failed to gain promotion.  

Calum McIntyre 

Albeit a relative unknown name in the world of football compared to the likes of Fowler and Barton, the current Chester FC manager is gradually building his resume in the National League North. The former Runcorn Linnets coach was named National League North Manager of the Season for 2022/23 having only taken to the dugout in May 2022. He led Chester on a 21-match unbeaten away run as well as achieving the best defensive record in the league. McIntyre’s side currently sit eighth in the league, having won four out of their last five games. An appointment like this would be seen as a gamble from Tranmere Rovers and may prove difficult as McIntyre recently signed a contract extension until 2026. 

Danny Cowley  

Sacked by Portsmouth last season, Danny Cowley has made it no secret that he wants an immediate return to management, having already been linked with Bradford City. The London born coach has had prior experience managing a side in League Two, even winning the title in the 2018/19 season with Lincoln City. With the Bantams reportedly sniffing around Cowley, the Rovers may need to act swiftly if they wish to make him their man.  

Nigel Adkins 

Although Adkins has been officially appointed as the interim manager, the possibility of the caretaker boss taking the role on a permanent basis remains. The 58-year-old has had nine games in charge since his appointment and in that time, there has been very little noise from the club regarding the hiring of a new manager. Tranmere currently sit 22nd in League Two, just avoiding the relegation zone on goal difference, and have lost their last four matches in all competitions. The Superwhites haven’t got the bounce they would have wanted from Adkins, but the former Hull City coach has stated he is treating the job like he is the permanent manager.   

 

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