Ford named Rochdale assistant-manager

Ford, who played in an over 1,000 league games in an illustrious career, ended his playing days at Spotland in 2001 but is pleased to be back and working with Alan Bukcley.

He said: "I understand the kind of football Alan likes to play.

"His style of coaching is something I believe and my coaching is based on the same principles.

"I also hope that my knowledge of some of the players here at Spotland and the club itself will prove invaluable."

Grimsby-born Ford joined Scunthorpe in 1994, and played 91 times - scoring 11 goals, before moving onto Mansfield Town.