The Scotsman, 46, who spent eight years as a striker at Meadow Lane, scoring 68 League goals, left his role as a coach at Nottingham Forest in August.

McParland was joint-caretaker manager with Frank Barlow after Gary Megson left the City Ground in February 2006.

He replaces Steve Thompson, who was sacked on Tuesday after a poor start to the season left the Magpies with only 11 points from 11 League Two matches.

Reaction to the appointment of Ian McParland

606: DEBATE At least we might start to play attractive football again NH

His appointment means the club have had eigh managers in just over six years - not since Neil Warnock in 1991 has anyone stayed in the job for two full seasons.

"The whole thing has come out of the blue and I would say my head is still in a bit of a spin at the moment," McParland told the club's website.

"I will be doing everything I can to make sure we climb the table.

"I am not making any promises and things cannot happen overnight, but rest assured we will be giving 100%."

McParland's first game in charge will see County take on local rivals Mansfield on Saturday.