Ince handed the reins at Blackpool

Published on 19/02/2013 00:43

Paul Ince is relishing stepping up from his role of enthusiastic fan and supportive parent after being named as Blackpool’s new manager.

The 45-year-old took training for the first time at Pool’s Squires Gate training base having finalised a one-year rolling contract that ends chairman Karl Oyston’s protracted search for Michael Appleton’s successor.

During an absence from league management stretching back to April 2011, Ince has become well acquainted with the Bloomfield Road outfit, regularly attending games in support of son Tom. Ince jnr, an England Under-21 international winger, has scored 17 goals in 33 games this season and established himself as one of the most sought-after talents outside the top flight.

“It’s great to be here,” said his father. “Considering I’ve watched the team play for the last 14 months, it’s strange sitting here as the manager, having obviously watched Blackpool as a fan as well as watching my son play. I’m over the moon, though, delighted. It’s great to be here, back on the training ground and in charge of a great bunch of lads.”

l Preston North End have appointed former Huddersfield and Leeds boss Simon Grayson as their new manager. Grayson succeeds Graham Westley in the Deepdale post.