Image: PA Media
Steve Bruce has appeared as the odds-on favourite to become the next permanent Gillingham manager.
Bruce departed Championship side West Bromwich Albion in October 2022 and the 62-year-old had hinted at retirement after an illustrious career managing at the top level of the game.
The Gills parted company with Neil Harris last week after a run of three games without a win. His side had topped the League Two table after winning their opening four matches, but four defeats in seven since then saw them drop down to 8th.
Keith Millen has taken interim charge while the search for Harris’ replacement continues, with Owner Brad Gallinson saying that there is no rush for a new appointment.
Bruce began his playing career at the Gills – making over 200 appearances for the club between 1979 and 1984 – and has had a wealth of managerial experience with the likes of Birmingham City, Wigan Athletic, Sunderland, Hull City, Aston Villa and Newcastle United.
The former Manchester United defender is the overwhelming favourite, with 1/4 odds on BetVictor as of Friday morning.
Fellow former Gillingham player Scott Lindsey is second on that list at 8/1. Currently the Crawley Town manager, Lindsey has the Red Devils sat just outside the playoff places on goal difference in 8th, two points behind the Gills in the automatic promotion spots.
Karl Robinson is 12/1 on BetVictor and is also experienced of managing in the Football League with the likes of Milton Keynes Dons, Charlton Athletic and Oxford United. He was assistant manager to Sam Allardyce at Leeds United at the end of last season.
Bromley boss Andy Woodman is next at 14/1. Woodman was previously approached by Gillingham in January 2022 and was granted permission to speak to the club, but turned the approach down and opted to stay at Bromley. His side currently sit 5th in the National League.
Dennis Kutrieb uis another name linked with the job, but the Ebbsfleet United manager recently signed a long-term contract extension with the club until 2026. The German is 16/1 on BetVictor.