Mansfield name Holdsworth as boss

Holdsworth counts Birmingham amongst his former clubs as a player

David Holdsworth has been confirmed as the new manager of Mansfield Town on an 18-month contract.

Holdsworth leaves Unibond Premier League side Ilkeston Town, who are two divisions below the Stags.

Chairman Andy Perry said: "David is very enthusiastic about the job that lies ahead. He's a very positive and genuine person and a leader.

"He received glowing references from Trevor Francis and Glenn Roeder, who are well respected people."

London-born Holdsworth, 40, twin brother of striker Dean, made his name as a player at Watford before moving to Sheffield United and then on to Birmingham City.

He also enjoyed short spells at Walsall, Bolton Wanderers and Scarborough before seeing out his playing days at now defunct Gretna.

Adie Moses and Mark Stallard have stepped down from their caretaker position having secured two successive wins since taking over from Billy McEwan on 10 December.

A 2-1 home win over Weymouth was followed by the 3-1 Boxing Day triumph at Kettering and those victories have moved the Stags two points clear of the drop zone in the Blue Square Premier.

Holdsworth's first game in charge will be Monday night's home clash with runaway Blue Square Premier leaders Burton Albion (1945 GMT).