Alan Smith and Mark Crossley 'to join John Sheridan's backroom staff'

Former Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Mark Crossley is to become John Sheridan’s assistant manager at Notts County, according to reports, while Alan Smith is also said to be under consideration for a backroom position.

The Magpies are rumoured to be getting ready to announce Sheridan as their new boss today on a three-year deal after a compensation deal was agreed with Oldham Athletic.

Welshman Crossley worked alongside Sheridan at Chesterfield where the pair led the Spireites to promotion from League Two and a Johnstone's Paint Trophy win.

Former Manchester United forward Smith, meanwhile, has impressed behind the scenes at Meadow Lane, and the board is eager to reward him with a new deal that incorporates a coaching role.

Craig Westcarr, who spent time at Notts and also played under Sheridan at Chesterfield, had nothing but praise for the ex-Republic of Ireland midfielder, insisting the Magpies will have an excellent manager in the dugout.

"Should they announce him then it's a terrific appointment because he is a good manager without shadow of a doubt," he said.

"We had a lot of respect for each other and I've no doubt if he is given the time and stability, then he can make them challenge for promotion without a doubt.

"I enjoyed playing under him. He likes his teams to get the ball down and play in the right areas. And more importantly than that he is a winner, no matter what it takes.

"He knows League One and Two inside out. He's a strong personality, which is what a club like Notts need.

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