Duncan Ferguson is set to take on Everton this summer as his Forest Green Rovers side prepare for their League One campaign against the Blues U21s side.
The iconic forward took his first permanent steps in professional football as he took charge of the then-League One side in January as they battled relegation. Unfortunately, he couldn't steer them out of the danger zone as they slipped into the fourth tier of English football, a season after their promotion.
He replaced Ian Burchnall after the former Notts County boss lasted just 37 games in charge at The New Lawn. This summer provides a first full pre-season for the 51-year-old as he looks to immediately return to the third tier.
Ferguson left his position as Everton assistant manager last summer after continuing his time on the Goodison Park backroom staff under Frank Lampard. The Scot had a similar role under the previous two managers in the L4 as he was the right-hand man to Carlo Ancelotti and Rafael Benitez during their stints in charge.
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He did have two spells in caretaker charge but wasn't considered for a permanent position. As part of their pre-season preparations, he will welcome the Blues youngsters to Gloucestershire.
It will provide Big Dunc with an opportunity to witness first hand the quality on show at Finch Farm which he could bring to Forest Green on a temporary basis. During his first transfer window, he brought Tyler Onyango in on loan from the Blues but his spell was cut short through injury.
Paul Tait's side will come up against Rovers on July 19 as they condition themselves for another busy campaign of Premier League 2 football with Papa John's Trophy and Premier League International Cup set to be scheduled in the calendar.
Details of additional Under-21s pre-season fixtures will appear on the official Everton website in due course.
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