VETERAN Bury midfielder Tommy Miller says the players continue to back caretaker manager Ronnie Jepson for the full-time position despite a number of high-profile candidates being linked with the job.

Former Manchester City striker Shaun Goater is the latest to be touted for the vacant post and, after being a regular visitor at the JD Stadium in recent weeks, was there again on Tuesday night to watch the 1-0 win over Hartlepool United.

Former Sheffield United manager Danny Wilson is also understood to be keen on the job, with his possible second in command, ex-Bury coach Peter Shirtliff, also in attendance at more than his fair share of matches of late.

The same can be said of ex-Accrington and Rochdale manager John Coleman, while Chorley boss Garry Flitcroft and Bolton Wanderers youth team coach David Lee are also known to be interested.

But Miller believes the club’s owners should look no further than Jepson, who has been given until January to stake his claim.

“I am pleased for Ronnie,” said Miller, after Tuesday’s first win at home since August 31.

“The training has been short and sharp and the lads have really taken to him well and are right behind him. They would like to see him get the job.”

It has been reported this week that Goater, who has no managerial experience, has applied for the post and sees the Bury job as the perfect introduction into management.

He is understood to be keen on bringing in former City boss Joe Royle as a mentor.