Football / Bristol Rovers
Darrell Clarke’s Rovers return
Gasheads are almost unanimously delighted with the appointment of former manager Darrell Clarke back to the club’s helm.
It has taken just two days for the Bristol Rovers hierarchy to lure the 47-year-old back to the Memorial Stadium following the sacking of Iñigo Calderón.
Clarke will be tasked with repeating the job he did a decade ago when he achieved promotion out of League Two with Rovers in the 2015/16 season.
is needed now More than ever
ENCORE ENCORE ENCORE pic.twitter.com/oYdNMpXAVQ
— Caz (@cazjmay) May 6, 2025
“It is difficult to put into words just how special it feels to come back to Bristol Rovers,” said Clarke, who after achieving back to back promotions with Rovers went on to manage Walsall, Cheltenham Town and Barnsley.
“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.
“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.”
Bristol Rovers director of football, Ricky Martin, added: “I am delighted to welcome Darrell back to Bristol Rovers.
“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.”
Main photo: Bristol Rovers
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