'Fiercely ambitious and forward-thinking' - the lowdown on Chesterfield's soon-to-be new manager James Rowe

We spoke to Gloucestershire Live journalist, Jon Palmer, for the lowdown on Rowe, 37, and here is what he said...

How would you sum up Rowe’s time in charge at Gloucester?

Rowe took over on November 19 last year. He ended up having 14 matches in charge last season before it was cut short, gradually rebuilding the squad and bringing in an almost entirely new team. The Tigers returned home to a newly-built Meadow Park this summer, after 13 years of groundsharing since the 2007 floods and it has coincided with a wonderful start to the season, with City opening up a seven point lead at the top of the National League North and producing some scintillating attacking football under Rowe.

How will Tigers fans react to him leaving?

The fans will definitely be disappointed to see him go, but I believe many will wish him well because Chesterfield are clearly a big club in non-league football. It's been a brief, but successful reign for him at Gloucester with a huge amount of change in a short space of time and he leaves them in a good place.

Are you surprised Chesterfield have moved for him?

I am not surprised because he is a young, ambitious, forward-thinking coach who has handled himself professionally and impressively at Gloucester. The start they have made is bound to have caught the eye of several clubs.

What type of manager is he?

He wants to play attractive football and City have been scoring goals for fun this season. They've let in more than he would have liked, but such is their firepower, it hasn't stopped them flying to the top of the table. The players have responded to his methods and I would describe him as a very 'modern' and innovative coach, who is highly adept at man management too.

What is he style of play and formation?

It's been primarily 3-5-2, with the option to switch to 4-4-2. It's expansive and exciting to watch, with a huge number of chances being created and the front two of Matt McClure and Akwasi Asante have both been in superb form

What has his player recruitment been like?

His recruitment has been excellent. Some will claim they are 'moneybags' and there is no doubt they have signed some high calibre players, but many of them have worked with Rowe before and that certainly played a part in their decisions to join City. The board have backed him, but it's by no means silly money for the level, so he's still overachieved with that he's done. Pretty much all the new additions have been a bit hit so far.

Would you back him to do a good job at the Spireites?

He has shown he is capable of managing change and that's what it looks like he may have to do again at Chesterfield. I believe this is an astute appointment and based on what he's done in Gloucestershire, I would back him to guide his new club up the National League table. He is fiercely ambitious and hard-working and I believe the Chesterfield players will react well to his style.