Gary Neville looks to raid old club Man Utd with Under-23s coach Neil Wood on shortlist to become new Salford boss

MANCHESTER UNITED'S under-23 coach Neil Wood is the shock choice for the Salford City job.

The League Two outfit’s Class of 92 owners see Wood as the solution to their problem after failing to land Michael Appleton.

Wood has been working at United for the last three years after spending most of his playing career there as a squad understudy.

The former midfielder has cut his teeth with the youngsters at Old Trafford and will now move up to senior level.

The links between Salford owners Gary Neville, Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes and their old club is strong and this could help sign players from United.

Gary Bowyer was sacked after over a season in charge but was replaced after failing to deliver promotion.

Salford finished tenth, seven points off the play-off places.

A statement on the club's website said: "Salford City Football announces the departure of First Team Manager Gary Bowyer from The Peninsula Stadium.

"A meeting was held earlier today and the Club has made the decision to terminate Gary Bowyer’s contract along with Assistant Manager Billy Barr.

"The Club would like to thank Gary and Billy for their hard work over the last season, and we wish them all the best for their future roles within football.

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"An announcement regarding the role of First Team Manager will be made in due course."

Appleton was sounded out but did not commit.