TRANMERE Rovers have appointed Alex Russell as the club's new first team coach.

The 41-year-old retired from a 24-year playing career in 2013 which included spells with Rochdale, Cambridge United, Torquay United, Bristol City, Cheltenham Town and Exeter City.

He was appointed Under-21 coach at Bristol City in 2012 after previously working in their academy.

Alex will join up with the squad for Rovers' League Two game against Wycombe Wanderers tonight.

Manager Rob Edwards is delighted with the new addition to his coaching staff.

He said: "Alex is a young, up and coming coach who will help me develop the players at Tranmere, particularly the younger ones.

"I've played with him and have seen how good an understanding of the game he has.

"I've also coached Alex and really liked the input he gave me and the calming influence he has on the dressing room.

"He knows the game inside out and I look forward to working with him."