Roles reversed as former Leeds boss Steve Evans replaces one-time Massimo Cellino target | OneFootball

Former Leeds United manager Steve Evans has taken over as Bristol Rovers head coach, with the club battling League Two relegation. He replaces Darrell Clarke, who was courted by Massimo Cellino to succeed Evans at Elland Road in 2016.

The club said in a statement that Evans has signed until the end of the season and will take charge for Friday's League Two trip to Crewe Alexandra.

Clarke had left in 2019, returned in May, and was dismissed after Saturday's 3-0 home defeat to Swindon Town, the club's 10th straight league loss, which dragged them into the relegation zone.

Evans, who guided Leeds to 13th in the Championship before being sacked in May 2016, has been out of work since March after being sacked by Rotherham. He has also managed Mansfield Town, Peterborough United, Gillingham and Stevenage since leaving Elland Road.

Evans said he is delighted to join a traditional club and has always found the Memorial Stadium a difficult place to visit. He is looking forward to the role, mindful of the immediate challenge and keen to get to work.

In 2016, Leeds held talks with Rovers over compensation for Clarke, who instead signed a new three-year deal as the club addressed speculation. After missing out on Clarke and Karl Robinson, Cellino appointed Garry Monk, whose side finished seventh in 2016/17.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk