Stockport County Hand Ian Bogie The Reins

EXPERIENCED Non-League boss Ian Bogie has taken over as manager of Stockport County following the departure of Darije Kalezic.

Kalezic left Edgeley Park by mutual consent on Wednesday, with the club’s vice chairman admitting they had made a mistake by appointing someone with no prior knowledge of the Conference.

They have now moved to appoint Bogie, who spent five years in charge of County’s league rivals Gateshead prior to being sacked in December last year.

Bogie – a former player with Newcastle United, Preston, Millwall, Leyton Orient, Port Vale and Kidderminster – led the Heed to two promotions during his time at the International Stadium, guiding them from the NPL Premier Division to the Conference Premier.

Speaking about his appointment as Hatters boss, Bogie said: “Stockport County is a massive club with a great history, but everyone knows that there is a big challenge on to get them out of the precarious position they are in, however it is a challenge that I am looking forward to immensely.

“Obviously I will be leaning heavily on Alan Lord for the first week but I have plenty of experience in this division and I believe that there is enough quality in the playing staff for us to work with as I look to put my stamp on the club.

“Having played at Edgeley Park myself in the past, I know how the blue and white army can intimidate opposing teams and I would ask that players, staff and supporters get behind us as we play the seven cup finals that we have and believe that together we can pull through.”