Swindon Town's search for a new permanent head coach continues after Dean Brennan pledged his future to the non-league club.

The Adver exclusively revealed on Friday that the 42-year-old had held talks with the County Ground hierarchy over a switch from Barnet, having led the North London outfit to the National League play-offs twice in three seasons.

But Barnet issued a statement on Saturday afternoon confirming Brennan would be spearheading their bid for a return to the Football League in 2024/25.

It read: "Following recent media speculation, Barnet FC would like to update supporters regarding Dean Brennan and the managerial position at Swindon Town FC.

"Earlier this week, Barnet FC made Dean Brennan aware that they had received an approach from Swindon Town requesting permission to speak with him.

 

"Dean would like to assure supporters that he remains fully committed to achieving Barnet FC’s goal of promotion to the EFL, and a significant amount of work has already taken place to enhance the squad for the new campaign.

"Dean and the club continue to look forward to the season ahead."

Irishman Brennan, who has previously managed Billericay and Kingstonian emerged as a front-runner for the Town job despite strong rumours Derek Adams was the leading contender.

The former Bradford City and Plymouth Argyle boss was spotted at the County Ground when Town defeated AFC Wimbledon last month.

Gavin Gunning has been in charge on an interim basis since the exit of Michael Flynn in January but led the club to their worst-ever finish - 19th in the Football League's basement division with 54 points.

Speaking after the final-day draw with Morecambe three weeks ago, he called the experience a "reality check".

He said: “There is loads to improve on and loads to learn, every day is a learning day.

“I have been learning how to deal with players and different styles of players, but I have enjoyed it.

“It’s not great [picking up 20 points in his 18 games in charge], but I think that sums up our season and where we are at.

“[I feel] 100 per cent [responsibility for that], because it is my name that is on it as I am the head coach.”