Gary Simpson returns as manager in Lincoln City's hour of need
Gary Simpson will complete an emotional return to Sincil Bank today after winning the race to become Lincoln City's new manager.
The former Macclesfield boss has been appointed David Holdsworth's successor until the end of the season.
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At the helm: Gary Simpson has replaced David Holdsworth as Lincoln City manager
He will be assisted by club legend Grant Brown, who has been in charge of the Imps on a caretaker basis.
Although the deal is only short term, should Simpson save the club from relegation, his stay will be extended.
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With City only two points off the drop zone following Tuesday's 1-0 defeat against Mansfield, City's board have moved swiftly to appoint a new boss.
And it is understood the 51-year-old has been told he will be given funds to strengthen the team which lies sixth from bottom in the table.
Simpson's credentials perfectly matched the board's criteria of a manager having an affinity with the club and able to work on a tight budget.
And he will relish the task of guiding City away from danger in his return to the city he left in 2006.
Having been appointed Keith Alexander's assistant in 2002, he helped lead the Imps to four consecutive League Two play-off appearances.
He then joined Alexander at Peterborough and Macclesfield where he eventually took over in the wake of his close friend's death in March 2010.
Simpson was sacked by the Silkmen last March despite having sold on five players for more than £1million and taking them on a fine FA Cup run.
He has always harboured the dream of managing Lincoln, having admitted his sadness at their plight as they tumbled out of the Football League.
In an interview with the Echo last week, he said: "The last few years have been painful to watch because of what myself and the gaffer (Keith Alexander) achieved there," he said.
"It's a fantastic club which has such a great set of supporters and they will be hurting at what has happened.
"The club has always and will forever have a place in my heart. We had so many good times there with the gaffer and the lads and I would love to bring those times back."
Barring any hitches, Simpson was due to meet the players this morning before undertaking a press conference this afternoon.
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