Former Sheffield Wednesday defender set to take over as League Two boss

Graham Coughlan spent two seasons at Wednesday before the short move to Rotherham after being released. He is set to take over as Mansfield manager

Graham Coughlan, who made 55 appearances for Wednesday between 2005 and 2007, is expected to be announced as the new manager of Mansfield Town, leaving his position at League One Bristol Rovers.

The Irishman has led Rovers to fourth in the table, while the Stags are 18th in the division below. However it is believed that Coughlan wants to work closer to where his fanily is based in Sheffield.

Rovers beat promotion rivals Ipswich on Saturday and despite that, Coughlan said he was considering his future.

Graham Coughlan looks set to leave Bristol Rovers for Mansfield. (Alex Davidson/Getty Images)

"I need to go home and see my wife and kids this evening and spend some time with them," he said. "I've got a decision to make in my own life and my own career and where I'm going. I'm going to make that decision tonight when I go home.

“I don't know where I can take this football club. I'm going to spend this evening with my wife and kids and see which way I wake up in the morning.”

When asked if it was a personal or footballing decision he was taking, Coughlan added: I think it's both. How far can we go with the club? How far can we take it? I don't know, I'm emotional at the minute.”

Rovers take on Plymouth in an FA Cup replay tomorrow night and while the Bristol Post have reported Coughlan took training today, the club were working behind the scenes to plan for his departure.