Former Tranmere defender Ian Sharps has been appointed as caretaker manager of League One side Walsall, with his first game in charge likely to be against Paul Cook’s Wigan Athletic.
Sharps played more than 550 games during a successful playing career, with 172 of those coming in a Tranmere shirt. He left Rovers back in 2006, going on to have a successful spell with Rotherham where he played in excess of 160 games.
Most recently, he played against Tranmere for Chester prior to retiring and moving to in to coaching. He joined Walsall as first team coach, and following the sacking of Jon Whitney today, Sharps has moved in to the role of caretaker manager.
Walsall are currently 14th in League One having lost four of their last five games, sitting just six points clear of relegation.
He will be assisted by veteran coach John Ward, previously manager of the likes of Cheltenham and Colchester.
Rovers Rearguard wish Ian all the very best in his role at the Bescot Stadium.
Wrexham boss in the frame
While Sharps has the job for the time being, a role which is likely to be extended until the end-of-the-season, he may have a fight on his hands to get it permanently.
Walsall are said to be keen on Wrexham boss Dean Keates, a man who spent many years with the Midlands club as a player. He played 156 games for the Saddlers and would be tempted by a return to the club.
Keates has done an impressive job at Wrexham with the Welsh club a shoe-in for a play-off position.