Gillingham chairman Paul Scally has a big decision to make – and he’s unlikely to be rushed into it.

While Ady Pennock would love to continue at the helm there will be no shortage of candidates keen on the job.

There are just 92 No.1 jobs in the Premier and Football League and hundreds of coaches desperate for a chance.

The Gills will not have the biggest budget in League 1 next season, so Mr Scally must be as shrewd in his appointment as the man in charge will need to be on the transfer front.

Here’s a list of potential candidates:

ADY PENNOCK

A fans’ favourite as a player, Pennock had a massive task on his hands at Gillingham after taking over as head coach following Justin Edinburgh’s sacking. He talked of the play-offs when appointed, but later admitted there was only one mission – to survive. His team did it on the final day.

KENNY JACKETT

Many fans want a big-name appointment and Jackett could be the man. Currently out of work after a brief spell at Rotherham earlier this season, he led Wolves to the League 1 title in 2014 and previously guided Millwall to play-off success at the same level.

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GARETH AINSWORTH

He’s been at Wycombe since November 2012 and was previously linked to the Gills. On a modest budget he has flirted with promotion before, missing out in the 2015 League 2 play-off final on penalties. His side head into the weekend hoping for the play-offs again.

IAN HENDON

An outside bet for the job but a coach who knows the club inside out. Previously served as No.2 to Andy Hessenthaler at Gillingham before joining the coaching staff at West Ham under then-manager Sam Allardyce. He’s been a regular at Gills’ home games this season.

STEVE COTTERILL

He may be in line for a bigger job, if, as expected, the Birmingham City No.1 role becomes available in the summer. He’s currently at City working under Harry Redknapp as they
battle to avoid relegation. Previously won promotions at Cheltenham, Notts County and Bristol City.

STEVE EVANS

A big character who has been previously linked to the Gills. He was manager at Rotherham during their League 2 promotion campaign – finishing second behind the Gills in 2013 – before winning the League 1 play-off final the next season. Currently at Mansfield after a spell with Leeds.

JIMMY FLOYD HASSELBAINK

Won the League 2 title with Burton in 2015 and guided the club to the summit of League 1 the following season. Left mid-season for the lure of Championship side QPR but was sacked in November, winning only 13 of his 47 matches in charge.

CHRIS POWELL

Despite his close association to rivals Charlton, his CV and likeable manner might persuade Gills fans to forgive him. Led Charlton to the League 1 title with 101 points. The following season they finished just three points outside the Championship play-offs.

What do you think the chairman should do? Comment below.