Ex-Bolton and Southampton striker Kevin Davies appointed Southport manager

The 40-year-old, whose 22-year playing career saw him make 820 appearances and score 150 goals, has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Merseyside club.

Davies, who also played for Blackburn, Chesterfield and Preston and w on one cap for England, will be assisted at Southport by former Luton, Bradford and Oxford defender John Dreyer.

Davies replaces Alan Lewer, who was sacked in September after four months in charge.

He said in a statement on the club website: "I am delighted to be appointed as the new Southport FC manager. This is a great opportunity and the timing is right for me to step into management.

"Over my 22-year playing career I was privileged to work under some fantastic managers, including four who managed England. My career was built on hard work, passion and a strong desire to do whatever it takes to win a game of football.

"There is lots of hard work ahead and it is a challenge that I am relishing. This is a very exciting time to be involved with Southport FC with new investment to develop the stadium and infrastructure.

"Football is about creating memories and I, along with my assistant John Dreyer, players and staff, will be working tirelessly to take the club forward in a positive direction."

Southport, who were members of the Football League from 1921 to 1978, currently lie 16th in the sixth tier of English football, although only four points off the play-off places.