Bristol Rovers have appointed Steve Evans as their new manager in a bid to turn around a very poor run of form.
The League Two club sacked Darrell Clarke after a 3-0 home defeat by Swindon Town made it 10 league losses in a row and pushed the team into the relegation zone.
Evans, 63, returns to management after being out of work since March, when he was dismissed by Rotherham. In recent months, he has spoken about making major lifestyle changes, including losing seven stone in weight.
The experienced Scot has managed more than 1,000 matches during a 30-year career, with over 700 of those coming in the English Football League. His previous clubs include Leeds United, Mansfield Town, Peterborough United, Gillingham and Stevenage.
Evans has signed a contract until the end of the season and will take charge of his first match away at Crewe Alexandra on Friday evening.
Speaking after his appointment, Evans said he was delighted to join what he described as a big, traditional club and said he was aware of the immediate challenge ahead.
Bristol Rovers’ director of football Ricky Martin said Evans’ experience and leadership were key reasons for the appointment, adding that his teams are known for their hard work, organisation and commitment.
Evans will be assisted by Paul Raynor, who briefly played for Bristol Rovers in the 1980s.
