Wolverhampton Sporting Community turn to Francis

The West Midland League Premier Division outfit sacked young boss Wayne Spicer after Saturday’s 2-0 loss away at Wolverhampton Casuals.

For a team aiming for the top four in their division, they are languishing in 11th place after two wins, one draw and two losses in five games.

In Francis the club have a former Stoke and Watford professional who went on to have long spells at the lower levels with several clubs including Hednesford Town and Tamworth.

The 32-year-old has played at both centre-back and striker during his career and started in defence for Tamworth when they lost 2-0 away at Everton in the FA Cup in 2012.

His first game in charge of Sporting, who have a free weekend, will be away to fourth-placed Littleton on October 5.

Secretary Mark Hobson said: “We had a hell of a lot of interest from top managers but we’re a forward thinking club and we wanted a young manager.

“After speaking to those that interviewed him, he has the hunger.

“He has a wealth of experience in football, he’s played at professional level and also locally so he has a lot of good contacts – as a committee we’re very happy.

“He wants to play attractive football and that’s what we’re about.

Francis previously played as a player-manager for Heath Hayes, but is yet to decide on whether he will take on that role for Sporting.

“I’m sure he still has it in his locker, he was a good player, I’d love him to be player-manager,” Hobson added.

“He’ll have the backing of the committee whatever he decides.”