Matt Taylor, interim manager at Exeter City, is set to discuss the vacant permanent role at St James Park after the season concludes. His decision comes as Exeter City faces a critical final day in League One, battling for survival. The Grecians' form has significantly declined since their victory at Port Vale on January 24th, a turning point that saw them drop from 10th place.
Taylor, a former Grecians captain and manager, took interim charge in March following Gary Caldwell's departure to Wigan Athletic. He previously led Exeter to promotion from League Two in 2022 before moving to Rotherham United and later Bristol Rovers. Now, he's led Exeter through their last 12 games, with a recent upturn in form after a difficult start.
Speaking to BBC Radio Devon, Taylor expressed his appreciation for the "special club" Exeter City. He acknowledged the upcoming financial difficulties, which will necessitate a reliance on young players from the academy system. Taylor believes his experience in developing youth makes him well-suited for this challenge, but emphasized that discussions about the permanent role would happen after the immediate survival task.
Despite initially stating it was "unlikely" he would take the job long-term, Taylor now confirms he will listen to the club, close confidantes, and his own instincts. He described himself as a "feel" person, indicating his decision will be deeply personal and made at the right moment.
Exeter City faces an uphill battle for League One survival on Saturday. They must secure three points against play-off hopefuls Bradford City and hope Leyton Orient fails to beat Burton Albion. Their current precarious position highlights the stark contrast to their form after the win at Port Vale on January 24th, when they were comfortably in 10th place before a significant slip.
After losing five of his first six games in charge, Matt Taylor's Exeter side has shown resilience, losing only once in their subsequent six matches and scoring nine goals in their last four games. Goalkeeper Jack Bycroft's late equaliser against Stockport County last month was crucial in keeping their survival hopes alive.
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