Former Shrimps boss named as Plymouth Argyle director of football

Six-and-a-half years after leaving the manager’s position at Home Park, Adams will start work as their new director of football on Monday.

Plymouth say his role is to manage the men’s first-team structure, as well as providing ‘strategic guidance’ in helping head coach Tom Cleverley and head of football operations David Fox.

Argyle chairman Simon Hallett told the club’s website: “Derek is someone who knows Argyle well after a long period of time here as manager.

“He has extensive knowledge across all areas of the football pyramid in both England and Scotland and will provide valuable support to both David and Tom as we look to come through this challenging period.

“He is someone that has experience of tough circumstances and will work closely with all areas of the men’s football department to ensure results and performances improve.

“I am pleased to welcome him back to Argyle.”

Regarded as Morecambe’s greatest manager after leading them into League One in 2021, Adams had been out of work since his third spell in charge at the Mazuma Mobile Stadium came to an end in August.

Having held together the playing side of the club during a summer of turmoil, he was swiftly sacked by Panjab Warriors once their takeover was confirmed and replaced in the dugout by Ashvir Singh Johal.

A former promotion winner with Argyle, Adams returns with them at the bottom of the League One table after a run of one point from 15.

Chief executive Paul Berne added: “We are all aware the situation we are in is not good enough and the Board believe bringing in someone of Derek’s experience will support us as we work to improve.

“He will work closely with the men’s football staff as we approach a busy period of fixtures and head towards the January transfer window.

“He has the experience and expertise to contribute immediately to planning and decision making and I look forward to seeing him back at Home Park.”