Notts County confirm appointment of Alan Smith as caretaker boss

Notts County player-coach Alan Smith has been placed in temporary charge of the first team while the club look for a new permanent manager.

The former Leeds United and Manchester United man replaces John Sheridan, who was sacked on Monday night after the Magpies were beaten 4-0 by Cambridge United, their ninth successive loss.

Smith, a Notts player since the summer of 2014, will be assisted by Mark Crossley, who will continue in his current role as assistant manager.

The 36-year-old told the official club site: “The most important thing right now is for everyone - players, staff and fans - to stick together.

“There’s no getting away from it, it’s been a very, very disappointing season so far. But there are lots of points still to play for and we are determined and confident of putting things right.

“The fans are doing their bit. Our following at Cambridge, given our recent form, was phenomenal. As players and staff we have to repay that loyalty.

“We have some huge games coming up, starting at Morecambe on Saturday and, until a new manager arrives, I will be working closely with Mark and the rest of the staff to hopefully lead an upturn in our fortunes.”

Notts County are set to be taken over by local businessman Alan Hardy after current owner Ray Trew agreed to sell the club in December.

It has been reported that the former will not appoint Smith on a permanent basis, instead wanting a manager with proven lower-league experience.

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