Scunthorpe United have been dealt a significant setback in their ongoing pursuit to find a replacement for Andy Butler, following his recent exit.

The Iron are currently manager-less after opting to terminate Butler’s contract via mutual consent, following a disappointing start to the season which has led the club to drop to 23rd in the National League and seven points from safety.

Less than six months ago, Scunthorpe were celebrating their play-off finish in the National League in what was their debut return to the division – but ultimately fell short against eventual winners Rochdale.

Callum Roberts and Oliver Ewing were also amongst several players to depart in the summer, but regardless of the exits, results haven’t been enough to save Butler.

Scunthorpe dealt managerial setback

Following their recent managerial exit, Scunthorpe United are continuing their quest to try and resurrect their campaign.

Recently, National League Lowdown’s Callum put together an article of four potential candidates, and in it there was a mention of looking at managers in work as well as those without a club.

However, it appears as though Scunthorpe may be taking that approach in their hopes of avoiding a relegation battle this season.

According to a report from journalist Pete O’Rourke, Scunthorpe United have had an approach for Chester’s Phil Parkinson rejected.

Chester are currently pushing for the play-off places in the National League North, but could climb as high as second, should they win their game in-hand.

Whether Scunthorpe continue to target in-work managers remains to be seen, but despite the rejection – it could be seen as a step forward for the club in terms of making moves to try and replace Butler.

Would he have been a good fit?

Parkinson has previously managed in the National League with Altrincham, leaving during the opening months of the previous campaign and went on to have a coaching role with Fleetwood Town before signing on at Chester.

During his spell with Alty, Parkinson oversaw the development of several key players including Regan Linney and Chris Conn-Clarke, whilst also achieving play-off finishes with one of the smaller budgets in the division.

Similarly, he helped to consistently steer the club away from any relegation trouble, which is a characteristic the Scunthorpe board are likely to want their next manager to have.

Whilst Parkinson’s final few months with the club didn’t necessarily go to plan, he proved how effective he can be at National League level and his arrival could have made a huge difference for the club.

However, this is now unlikely following the rejected approach, leaving Scunthorpe in need of a new idea.