Brian Horton could be the best signing Rovers make this summer according to boss Paul Dickov.
Horton’s long-mooted appointment was confirmed on Monday as the former Manchester City chief took part in the first training session of pre-season.
And Dickov is delighted to have an experienced hand to guide him into Championship management.
“Everyone I’ve spoken to in the game has said that Brian is probably the best signing I’ll ever make,” Dickov said.
“Brian is someone who will be fantastic for me.
“He’ll probably rein me in that little bit. Probably the only thing I was missing during my time at Oldham was that experience head.
“He’s managed more than 1,000 games and you could add at least 500 more as an assistant as well.
“Having that experience along with Brian Flynn will be invaluable to me. You can’t buy that experience.”
Horton has been out of work since a stint as manager of Macclesfield during the 2011/12 season.
His managerial CV also includes Hull, Huddersfield, Port Vale, Oxford and Brighton.
Also joining Dickov’s backroom staff this week is goalkeeping coach Paul Gerrard and first team coach Paul Butler.
Former goalkeeping coach Lee Butler has left the club