Braintree Town manager Danny Cowley admits he and his brother Nicky have a tough decision to make.

Following several days of speculation about the pair's future at the Avanti Stadium, Danny said that he and his brother, who is the Iron's assistant manager, had spoken to Braintree's Vanarama National League rivals Lincoln City about becoming their new management team.

The Imps asked Braintree for permission to speak to the Cowleys earlier this week, which was granted by the Essex club.

Lincoln have been attracted by Danny and Nicky's record in their first year at the Braintree helm, in leading the team to third in the National League and to within ten minutes of a play-off final at Wembley Stadium.

Speaking to the Braintree and Witham Times, Danny said he and his brother had now spoken properly with representatives from Lincoln and he admitted that a tough decision now lay ahead.

He said: "Nicky and I have spoken to Lincoln and we now have that decision to make.

"However, it's going to be a tough decision to make if we do decide to move on because of the fantastic relationship that we have with everyone at Braintree.

"It's going to be a difficult one to make."

Cowley said he knew that all parties wanted a speedy resolution to the situation so he expected things to be concluded one way or the other quite soon.

However, another twist could be interest from other clubs who have been similarly attracted by Danny and Nicky's success.

The Braintree and Witham Times believes Tranmere Rovers, who are also in the National League, have been tracking the Cowleys' progress, although they already have Gary Brabin in place as their manager.

Another side that the Times understands who have may be interested in talking with the brothers is newly-promoted League One side Northampton Town.

The Cobblers defied the odds to go up as champions of League Two last season and their boss, Chris Wilder, has been linked with a number of other jobs elsewhere, including Charlton Athletic and Sheffield United.