Jim Gannon 'verbally accepts' vacant Motherwell job

Published on Saturday 27 June 2009 13:45

MOTHERWELL have offered Jim Gannon the vacant manager's job, the club has confirmed.

The former Stockport boss looks set to succeed Mark McGhee, who quit to join SPL rivals Aberdeen earlier this month.

Gannon, 40, has verbally accepted the post and contract details are expected to be finalised by early next week.

Lawrie Sanchez, Steve Staunton and Aidy Boothroyd were all linked with the job but, according to Motherwell, Gannon emerged as the "outstanding candidate".

A statement on the club's official website, www.motherwellfc.co.uk, said: "Motherwell Football Club can today confirm that Jim Gannon has been offered the position of team manager.

"After a lengthy and in-depth interview process, Gannon emerged as the outstanding candidate and following discussions with club chairman John Boyle on Friday, he has verbally accepted the post.

"Both parties will use the remainder of the weekend and the start of next week finalising contract details before a formal announcement of Jim's appointment.

"The club will be making no further comment at this stage."

Gannon was given permission to talk to Brighton earlier this year amid reports Stockport were in financial difficulty but, after meeting with the Seagulls, he opted to remain at Edgeley Park.

However, the League One club entered administration in April and, within days, Gannon and assistant Peter Ward were made redundant.

The former Dundalk and County defender is highly-rated south of the border but will be plunged in at the deep end when he takes over the Fir Park helm.

Several players have already left the Lanarkshire club since the end of last season and Motherwell confirmed earlier today that an offer from Bristol City has been accepted for David Clarkson.

Paul Quinn could also be heading for the exit door after reports suggested Cardiff were close to agreeing a fee for the defender.

That leaves Gannon with a major rebuilding job to undertake, with their Europa League first round qualifier against Llanelli on Thursday.