ANDY KING admits he is walking on a managerial tightrope and knows one slip could cost him the job he so desperately wants to keep.

His caretaker role started with mixed emotions on Saturday as Town fell to a 3-2 defeat at Notts County.

But King admitted he felt a sense of pride from the performance which saw his side play with renewed vigour and a fresh approach.

They deserved to win the game, and yet they came away from a soggy Midlands with nothing but pride.

King is only too aware that chairman Terry Brady will only give him the job on a permanent basis if he brings in results.

Colin Todd's future at the club seems doomed as he awaits compensation to be settled, so King has his chance to take charge.

"I am very happy with the players but I am unhappy with the result," he said. "I am walking on a tightrope and I want a victory. I need that at all costs on Tuesday night.

"I have no idea how long I have in charge of the team. I am desperate for a victory."

Charismatic and full of enthusiasm, King's sheer enjoyment of the game must have rubbed off on his players and he hopes they can turn that type of performance into points come Tuesday night.

TOWN have been drawn against Dr Marten's side Ilkeston in the FA Cup First Round.

The match will be played at the County Ground on the weekend of November 18 or 19.

It could be an attractive clash for the Sky TV cameras as they search for a possible cup shock.

Town chief executive Pete Rowe said: "We shall be looking to speak with Ilkeston to see if we can provide a special ticket price for the game."

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