Jimmy McNulty has admitted that facing a club without a permanent manager unsettles him as Stockport County prepare to host manager-less Peterborough United in League One.

The Stockport boss spoke to Radio Manchester ahead of the third-tier fixture, offering a candid take on the challenge that awaits his side. "I hate the unknown," McNulty said, acknowledging that a club in managerial transition can be difficult to predict and prepare for.

Why the unknown worries McNulty

Peterborough parted ways with their previous manager following a defeat to Doncaster Rovers, and they head to Edgeley Park without a named replacement in the dugout. That uncertainty cuts both ways. Caretaker setups can free a squad from tactical constraints, sometimes producing a response that catches opponents cold.

McNulty knows the pattern well. A club stripped of its regular structure can, on its day, produce a performance that defies its league position. Peterborough remain a side with genuine quality in the third tier, and a point to prove after the upheaval of a managerial dismissal.

Stockport, by contrast, have the benefit of continuity. McNulty has built a settled group at Edgeley Park, with a clear identity and momentum behind them after a strong win over Wigan Athletic. He has spoken previously about the culture developing inside the club, and the squad appear well drilled and focused heading into this fixture.

Peterborough searching for answers

From Peterborough's perspective, this is a difficult assignment. Edgeley Park has become one of the tougher venues in the division, with Stockport's supporters creating an atmosphere that has tested visiting sides throughout the campaign.

Posh had flagged this fixture as a big opportunity in the weeks building up to it. Their task has now become considerably more complicated without a permanent manager to organise their preparations and set a clear tactical plan. Whoever takes charge of the team on matchday will have to motivate a squad that has just seen its head coach leave under difficult circumstances.

That said, Peterborough have experience at this level and players capable of performing in any environment. The club are actively searching for a new number eight, and their recruitment activity suggests they intend to push up the table when stability returns to the dugout.

Stockport aiming to capitalise

For Stockport, the priority is simple: take three points. McNulty's side have demonstrated this season that they can compete with the best in the division, and a home fixture against a side in transition represents an opportunity they will not want to waste.

The Stockport manager's words carry a note of caution rather than complacency. He will prepare his side as thoroughly as the uncertainty allows, knowing that whichever caretaker leads Peterborough out will have done everything possible to send the players onto the pitch with a clear plan and something to prove.

League One offers few straightforward afternoons. McNulty understands that, and his honesty about the challenge ahead suggests Stockport will approach this one with the same intensity they have shown throughout the campaign.

Kick-off at Edgeley Park is to be confirmed. Supporters can follow coverage via Radio Manchester.

Frequently asked

Who is in charge of Peterborough United after their manager was sacked?
Peterborough United parted ways with their manager following a defeat to Doncaster Rovers and have not yet named a permanent replacement. A caretaker is expected to take charge for the Stockport fixture.
When do Stockport County play Peterborough United?
The League One fixture between Stockport County and Peterborough United is scheduled for late September 2026 at Edgeley Park. An exact kick-off time is to be confirmed.
What did Jimmy McNulty say about facing manager-less Peterborough?
Stockport boss Jimmy McNulty said he hates the unknown when facing a club in managerial transition, warning that sides without a permanent manager can be unpredictable and difficult to prepare for.