Rovers revolution hits the buffers

TRANMERE Rovers were to have had a new chairman in property developer Michael Wilde and a new manager in ex-Barcelona and Chelsea full-back Albert Ferrer.

Wilde, the former Southampton chairman, had been in talks with Rovers owner Peter Johnson about a takeover deal. But the move collapsed this week, leaving the status quo intact at Prenton Park.

“I had exciting plans in place, including the appointment of Albert as head coach, aimed at creating a new and successful culture at Prenton Park. Unfortunately we have been unable to conclude a final agreement,” said WIlde.

The upshot is that the Johnson and Ronnie Moore show continues — except that former Athletic boss Moore is currently suspended from Rovers pending the outcome of an FA inquiry into an alleged breach of betting rules.

With the fans’ Tranmere Rovers Trust waiting for a possible purchase deal of their own, the only man who truly knows exactly where he stands is caretaker boss, Moore’s assistant John McMahon.

McMahon was thrust into the fray at the start of last week.

Despite the goings-on off the field, Rovers’ performances have generally been steady, with three wins in the club’s last six games.