The race for the Swindon Town managerial hotseat has nearly run its course with the shortlist whittled down to just two names, and an announcement expected imminently.

It is now thought to be a straight duel between former Robins playing legend Colin Calderwood, currently boss at struggling Nottingham Forest, and Newcastle United Academy director Richard Money.

Club director Nick Watkins confirmed that one of the names on the previous list of candidates, believed to be Gary Speed, is no longer a contender for the position.

“Andrew Fitton is in America but I hope to have a final dialogue with him on Thursday and we’ll then be in a position to make an announcement,” he said.

“He asked me to orchestrate the final round of discussions in his absence and there are two names left in contention, both of whom are currently employed.

“We still have one hurdle left to jump but it is not a financial one and we don’t anticipate there being a problem with compensation.”

Watkins also confirmed that the recent departures of Paul Ince from Blackburn Rovers and Danny Wilson from Hartlepool have not affected the process in any way and there has not been contact from either party.

Leyton Orient and former Swindon Martin Ling was believed to be on the final shortlist, but the Robins chief revealed his name had not entered the discussion on this occasion.

“I’m very excited about the two people still under consideration and think either would do a good job,” said Watkins.

“I’m not interested in the ‘wow’ factor with this appointment and I’m not interested in what people have done in the past, I’m more concerned with what they will do in the future.

“We’ve got a three year plan to be consolidated in the Championship and the new man must have the belief, ability and commitment necessary to make it happen.”