Bristol Rovers threw it back to Michael Jordan to announce the return of fan favourite Darrell Clarke as their new manager.
The Pirates wasted little time in unveiling Inigo Calderon’s successor, who was sacked following the club’s relegation from League One.
Clarke was out of work for less than two monthsGettyFormer Brighton star Calderon was given his marching orders on Sunday, having only been appointed in December.
Rovers were relegated from the third division following a dreadful run that saw them take just one point in their final ten games.
The Gas have now turned to Clarke in the hopes that the 47-year-old can replicate his former promotion-winning success at the club.
Clarke, who has been out of work since being axed by Barnsley in March, already has experience escaping League Two with Rovers.
Under his tutelage, the Memorial Stadium outfit claimed an automatic promotion spot during the 2015/16 campaign – 12 months after overseeing their promotion from the National League.
Rovers turned to NBA icon Jordan to show their faith that he can work his magic again, with a clever announcement on social media.
The club emulated MJ’s famous two-word ‘I’m back’ statement following his return to the Chicago Bulls in 1995.
“It is difficult to put into words just how special it feels to come back to Bristol Rovers,” Clarke told the club’s website.
“I am beyond proud to return and once again be here at this exceptional club.
“Even though the season just gone was undoubtedly a difficult one, the potential of this club remains incredibly high and, when the chance to return came up, I didn’t have any hesitation.
Clarke took Bristol Rovers from non league to League One in two successive yearsGetty“I am excited to get down to work during the off-season, prepare for the new campaign and step out at The Mem once again in front of the brilliant, passionate Gasheads.
“We will need each and every one of them with us in the season to come and I want to give them a team they can get behind and performances they can be proud of.”
Calderon’s final game in charge was a 4-1 defeat to Blackpool on Saturday, a ninth loss in their last ten to end the season.
Their relegation had already been confirmed last Tuesday with Burton‘s draw with Wigan.
Clarke has now put pen to paper on a three-year deal back at Rovers as the club prepare for life in the fourth division of the EFL.
Director of Football Ricky Martin added: “I am delighted to welcome Darrell back to Bristol Rovers.
Rovers had fun with their announcement of Clarke’s reappointment by using the famous MJ quoteGettyView Tweet: t.co/HnRmcHwXcj
“Following the review of our footballing operation, we began our recruitment proceedings, and it quickly became clear to me that Darrell was the right person to take our first team forward. He has been our number one target throughout this process.
“Darrell is an experienced and methodical coach, and I have been impressed by the expertise and knowledge he has shown.
“Even more apparent is his enthusiasm and energy, as is his incredible passion for Bristol Rovers Football Club.
“I am looking forward to working closely with Darrell over the summer and throughout pre-season as we revitalise and rejuvenate our playing squad, and ensure the club has the best possible standing ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.”
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