Bristol Rovers' League Two rivals Bradford have made a surprise appointment in confirming Mark Hughes as their new manager.
The Bantams announced the Manchester United legend on a deal until 2024 as he returns to the dugout for the first time in more than three years.
It is Hughes' first managerial job outside of the Premier League with a CV that covers Blackburn, Manchester City, Fulham, Queens Park Rangers, Stoke and Southampton.
Even Hughes admitted his appointment may have come as a surprise to many after revealing on Bradford's official site: "I am really pleased to be here and am looking forward to the role and the job in hand. It has been an exciting few days.
“It is maybe a little bit of a surprise that I have come in, but do not be put off by that. I am here for a reason: to make Bradford City a team people want to come and watch – and are proud to watch. The supporters come in their numbers, and that is the thing I have missed since being out of management.
“I am looking forward to the match day, getting that adrenaline flowing and interacting with the crowd."
Bradford are currently 15th in League Two, seven points behind Rovers having also played two games more. They sacked Derek Adams last week after a run of one win in seven and three consecutive defeats.
Rovers manager Joey Barton played under Hughes during his time at Queens Park Rangers during the 2011/12 season with the Welshman lasting just 10 months in the dugout.
Hughes was sacked from Southampton in December 2018 with the club embroiled in a relegation fight in the top flight.
Barton and Hughes will be reunited on April 2 when Bradford pay a visit to the Memorial Stadium.
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