John Ward Appointed

It's not very often that Rovers act quickly on anything but these past couple of days have been the exception to the rule. Former fans favourite John Ward has been appointed as our new manager on a short-term deal until the end of the season. Having previously managed the club in the mid-nineties where he enjoyed success, Ward will already appreciate what it is to be a Gashead and to represent this football club. I can recall watching videos of him mouthing the words to Goodnight Irene along with players and that is EXACTLY what I want to see from the club's employees. He doesn't need to 'buy in' to Bristol Rovers in any way, he already knows about us and what it takes to make the fans feel a part of it again. There is an affinity there and he will ensure every player in this squad plays their heart out for the blue and white quarters and the supporters who pay their wages. That's what has been lacking from the football club for years now and it is something that needs to be restored. We need unity.

Nick Higgs has said that there is a future for Ward in the long term should both parties agree at the end of the season and that's pleasing to hear, although it's also very wise not to commit to anything too long just yet.

Can Ward turn things around? Nobody can be 100% sure but what he will do is give it his very best shot. He's turned down a comfortable job as Plymouth's Director of Football to take up this position which tells you everything you need to know about the man. He wants to fight for this football club and it's our job to get behind him. 'Together' is a word he used several times during the press conference and it is, essentially, the most important thing in a successful side. Success this term will be to avoid relegation and although it's soul destroying to know that's the case we need to do it if we're to have a bright future.

Come on Gasheads, I urge you all to invest your wonderful support yet again in a bid to make Rovers a difficult team to beat. Get behind the players and sing non-stop for 90 minutes. Let's make it intimidating for the opposition like we used to - we genuinely can be the twelfth man if we can recapture that spirit and atmosphere. It's going to take a team effort to keep us up and we need to show our support for John Ward and Bristol Rovers - beginning on Saturday against Rotherham United.

Up the Gas!