Former Dundalk manager and Shelbourne player Jim Gannon was today appointed full-time boss of struggling English league side Stockport County.

Gannon had been caretaker since Chris Turner’s departure just after Christmas but the club’s chief executive, Kevan Taylor, has decided to make the switch permanent.

Gannon has agreed an initial short-term deal with a view to extending his contract at the end of the season.

Having made 479 County appearances between 1990 and 2000, Gannon is something of a Stockport legend.  In that time he helped the club to two promotions and four Wembley finals.

"I am very passionate towards Stockport County and I feel proud and honoured to be given the opportunity to turn around the club’s fortunes," the 37-year-old said.

Stockport are struggling at the foot of League Two but are unbeaten in their two league games since Gannon’s arrival.  His only defeat came in the FA Cup third round against Brentford.

All games are crucial when you’re rock bottom, but Gannon’s first as full-time boss is particularly important.  On Saturday, he hosts Rusden & Diamonds who sit just one point ahead of his own side.

While Gannon holds a strong rapport with the Stockport fans, there are some today who feel the club should have appointed a team with more experience bearing in mind the perilous league position.

Taylor, though, is convinced he has got the right man. "Jim was the outstanding candidate and he won the role ahead of a competitive field of prospective managers," he said.

"I am very confident Jim will succeed in moving County up the table because he has excellent technical qualities supported by a love and desire to achieve success for this club."

Gannon cut his managerial teeth when appointed boss of eircom League First Division side Dundalk in May 2004.  He resigned last November and was replaced by John Gill.