Doncaster Rovers: Russ Wilcox returns as head of recruitment

Wilcox replaces Paul Butler who departed the club last month and will oversee recruitment at all levels, working alongside boss Darren Ferguson.

"The gaffer is building the club from top to bottom," Wilcox said.

"If he feels the young players are ready he's not afraid to play them.

"There seems a good balance of young and experienced players in the group.

"Hopefully we can make one or two quality additions in January and build up the recruitment side in the Academy as well.

"It's a role that really excites me.

“I've been very impressed with the gaffer and his staff.

"They are very professional people with a strong work ethic that rubs off on the players.

"I'm sure I can add value to help Darren and the club achieve its goals."

Wilcox has most recently worked with Southampton, targeting players from youth to senior level, following on from a role in first team recruitment with Preston North End last season.

Hemsworth-born Wilcox started his career with Rovers but left after one senior appearance.

Following spells with Cambridge United, Frickley Athletic, Northampton Town and Hull City, he made his return to Rovers 12 years later.

After being signed by Scunthorpe United, he became Brian Laws' assistant, a role he also carried out at Sheffield Wednesday, Burnley and Bournemouth.

Wilcox was named Scunthorpe boss in December 2013 and broke the world record for the longest unbeaten run for a new manager, helping United to promotion. He also managed York City.

The 52-year-old is delighted to be back at Rovers for a third spell.

He said: “"It's great to be back at the club for a third time

"I made one appearance as a 17-year-old under Billy Bremner then returned at 29 to captain the club for two years at Belle Vue.

"Things have changed significantly since then.

"The infrastructure at the club is first class.

"Everything is in place for the club to be successful."