Manager Evans not leaving assured Stags chairman Radford

The rumours developed overnight and when Evans was reported to have said ‘no comment’ on the matter the speculation grew.

From this morning’s club statement it would seem the job offer rumour may well have been true as there is no outright denial.

But chairman Radford assured fans, by saying: “An update to our terrific supporters - I’m never surprised when our manager is sought after.

“He has previously turned down job offers before and whilst with us and his commitment to the Stags is beyond doubt.

“This is a long-term project here with a manager who has success and passion in his veins.

“As chairman, I’m not of the mind to accept any offer for our manager.

“I don’t normally respond to speculation as we would get nothing else done, but it’s important this was quickly put to bed as we need to keep our focus on Saturday at home to fellow promotion contenders Exeter City.”

Radford added: “Both Carolyn and I, along with the manager, will continue to drive our great club forward and our devotion to the Stags remains as strong as ever.

“Let’s ensure we have a big crowd at the One Call on Saturday. Come on you Stags!”

The rumour came to light last night via a Tweet from BBC Stags correspondent Charlie Slater saying: “A source of mine in London has told me that #stags manager Steve Evans has had a lucrative offer to go to Qatar. Evans tells me ‘no comment’.”

No one was available from the club overnight but, appearing to deny it, director Steve Hymas took to the fans’ forum last night to state: “Great timing to start a rumour.

“Just hitting form at the right time. The green eyed monster is appearing in all forms.”

The Evans departure rumour was ill-timed as Stags build up to one of their biggest games in recent history with a home six-pointer against play-off rivals Exeter City on Saturday.

The club’s fortunes have been transformed for the better since the arrival of Evans in November and he still has seven games to try to force the Stags into the play-offs.