Former Scunthorpe striker Jamie Forrester never had any doubt Nigel Adkins would become a successful manager.

Forrester made more than 100 appearances for United while Adkins served as the club's physio and the 35-year-old saw signs even then that he had a bright future ahead of him.

Forrester, who now runs his own football academy in Lincoln, told Press Association Sport: "Before Nigel came to Scunthorpe I know he had all his qualifications in place and he had done well managing Bangor.

"He used to do a bit with the goalkeepers too and his credentials were never in question. He's become a natural at management which is not easy to do.

"He's doing a very good job at a high level and I'm really surprised clubs haven't tried to poach him."

Forrester, who retired as a professional in the summer following a season with Notts County, now combines his academy work with playing semi-pro for Lincoln United.