Dean Saunders has today been named as the new manager of Wrexham FC.In what will come as a surprise appointment to many, the former Welsh international was this morning confirmed to have taken the post for which he was not initially considered to be a candidate.

Wrexham chairman Geoff Moss revealed he had sought out Saunders’ advice on the club’s situation, and quickly realised the former Liverpool, Aston Villa and Derby striker was the man for the job.

He said: “I’m delighted to have secured someone of Dean’s standing.

“Initially I only asked him to give me his advice on certain aspects of the club, but after long talks with him I realised that this is something he wanted to get involved with.

“His enthusiasm is infectious and it’s something that really excites me and as to what he can bring to us.

“Even I thought his position with Wales would rule him out, that has been talked through with John Toshack.

“Dean is very keen to take his first managerial role and I’m looking forward to seeing him in charge at the Racecourse.”

Club secretary Geraint Parry today hailed the appointment as good news for the struggling club, and said further details about the length of the contract would be released later today.

First-team coach Martin Foyle has now left.