Former Sligo Rovers manager Paul Cook appointed Portsmouth boss

Former Sligo Rovers manager Paul Cook has left his post at Chesterfield to take over the manager's position at League Two Portsmouth.

The move comes after Cook’s Chesterfield side lost out to Preston North End in their League One Playoff Semi-Final on Sunday, and sees the Liverpudlian manager drop down a league to England’s fourth tier.

Cook’s appointment comes about after Chesterfield came to an agreement with Portsmouth to release him from his current contract.

The 48-year-old’s three year spell at the Proact Stadium saw him clinch the League Two title last season and guide the Derybyshire outfit to the League One Playoffs this year.

During his time in the west of Ireland Cook managed Sligo to two FAI Cups, an EA Sports Cup and a Europa League place before departing for Accrington Stanley.

The move to Fratton Park will see Cook take over a Pompey side that only managed a 16th place finish in League Two last year but is slowly ressurecting itself after years of financial turmoil.

Cook takes over from caretaker manager Gary Waddock after Andy Awford parted company with the club last month.

Cook said: “I’d like to place on record my thanks to (Chesterfield chief executive) Chris Turner, chairman Dave Allen and the rest of the board for giving me the opportunity to manage such a great club.

“I’d like to thank the staff in all departments of the club for everything they have done during my time at the club.

“Most importantly, I’d also like to thank the players, who have been fantastic, both on and off the pitch. Finally, thanks to the fans for their superb support.”