Former interim head coach Gavin Gunning is set to stay on the coaching staff at Swindon Town under new head coach Mark Kennedy.

Gunning had been the club’s loan manager at the beginning of last season following the arrival of Michael Flynn as Swindon manager last May, having worked in the coaching staff under Scott Lindsey and Jody Morris, before becoming interim head coach for the final 18 games of last season.

The 33-year-old made no secret of his desire to become the head coach on a permanent basis during his time in interim charge in the second half of last season and with him not getting the job, fans wondered what would happen to him under the new head coach.

Speaking in his first press conference as Swindon’s head coach, Kennedy confirmed that Gunning would remain with the first team during his tenure, although he did reveal that an external assistant head coach would be arriving shortly.

Danny Butterfield, who won promotion from League Two as a coach under Paul Tisdale at Milton Keynes Dons, has been Kennedy’s assistant at both Macclesfield Town and Lincoln City, although he did follow his former Southampton teammate to Eastleigh in February.

Kennedy said: “Gavin is a big part of the club going forward, it shouldn’t be underestimated what he has done for the club, particularly in the last year.

“Gavin and I have spoken numerous times before years ago, I know Gavin and I know people that know him well, I understand his background, and he has got a huge passion for the club.

“I am really grateful that the club have supported me with Gavin and particularly appreciative that they have allowed me to bring in what would be my appointment, which was a big thing for me, but also a Swindon appointment, as opposed to someone being forced upon me.

“With the backroom staff, it is great to have Gav stay as part of the team, but very soon we will be bringing in a fantastic number two.

“[Will Steve Mildenhall also stay?] Yes. I think we have got an outstanding backroom staff here and that was a big part of the conversations with Jamie, it is an exciting group that Swindon have here and I have worked with people who are here.

“Steve has got an outstanding reputation through the game, so I am looking forward to working with those guys.”