Cheltenham Town boss Martin Allen has praised the club's fans for their unflinching support during what has been a turbulent season on and off the pitch.

Ahead of tomorrow's home match against Hartlepool United, the Robins are without a win in three months.

They are 16 points from safety, meaning relegation is almost certain with 12 matches left.

But their loyal band of travelling fans have given their side tremendous backing in the recent away matches at Swindon Town and Leicester City.

Supporters were determined to enjoy last week's trip to the Walkers Stadium, despite the runaway leaders thrashing Allen's side 4-0.

"It has been a very difficult time, but the supporters' backing at Swindon and Leicester was terrific," Allen said.

"They have seen the players give it everything and I understand their frustration.

"Who would be happy with their team not winning and being bottom of the league? But the energy and positive attitude of the supporters has been outstanding."

Allen has been in charge for six months, but he has only tasted victory four times in 28 league matches.

Previous boss Keith Downing's first 28 league games yielded twice as many victories, including two over Leeds United.

Allen has failed his primary objective, which was to keep the club up. He refused to be drawn on whether he has any regrets over the way he has gone about it.

"It's not the right time to review and look back now, the time to do that publicly will be at the end of the season," he said.

"It will then be time to open up and talk some more, but at the moment I am concentrating on Hartlepool, looking after these players and getting some points on the board for the supporters."

Allen was also reluctant to be drawn on which players have been offered contracts for next season along with Ashley Vincent, who turned his down and is set for a move to MK Dons.

"I have spoken to a couple of other players about contracts, but I have not been able to agree anything with those players yet," he said.

Damian Spencer and Shane Duff are thought to be the other players who have been offered extended deals.