SLIGO Rovers are hoping for a quick decision from Accrington Stanley over their interest in Paul Cook – but the Reds remain keen to take their time before choosing a new boss.

Stanley requested permission to speak to current Sligo boss Cook late last week after contact was made between the two clubs, but they are in no rush to make a decision over whether they want to appoint the 44-year-old.

The Reds still regard Cook as a back-up option after telling caretaker manager Leam Richardson that the job will be his if he continues to impress in temporary charge.

Stanley do not want to make any decisions before Saturday’s home match against Oxford, and may indeed opt to give Richardson further games after that to prove himself, even if Sligo are keen for a swift resolution to the situation.

Cook returned to his native Liverpool at the weekend after news of Accrington’s request became public, with the decision made that it would be difficult for him to attend Sligo’s pre-season friendly against Galway on Saturday.

Sligo’s 2012 season starts on March 2 and the Irish club want to know if Cook will be leaving in case they need to make plans for a replacement ahead of their first match of the campaign.