Tranmere Rovers are searching for a new manager following the departure of Nigel Adkins, and former Preston North End boss Ryan Lowe has emerged as the frontrunner for the role.
Adkins, 59, left Prenton Park by mutual agreement after a run of 10 games without a win, leaving the League Two side in 22nd place with just 13 matches remaining this season.
Ryan Lowe in the Frame
According to reports, Lowe is under serious consideration for the job and is currently the bookmakers’ favourite. The 46-year-old Liverpudlian has a strong connection to Tranmere, having scored 20 goals in 50 appearances during his playing days at the club.
Out of work since leaving Preston in August 2024, Lowe has been linked with several managerial positions, including Cardiff City, Stoke City, and Bristol Rovers. He openly admitted his desire to return to the Championship, but Tranmere’s approach could tempt him back into management.
“With this little bit of a break, it’ll make me a better manager wherever I go next. I want to get back into the Championship, but unfortunately someone has to lose their job for me to do that.”
Despite his Championship ambitions, the lure of returning to a former club and the opportunity to rebuild a struggling side could prove appealing.
Tranmere Face a Crucial Decision
With time running out to turn their season around, Tranmere’s next managerial appointment is critical. The club will need a strong leader to guide them away from the relegation zone and ensure their League Two survival.
Lowe’s record in the lower leagues speaks for itself. He secured promotions with Bury and Plymouth Argyle, earning a reputation for attacking football and squad development. However, taking on a team in a relegation battle would be a different kind of challenge.
Writer’s View
Tranmere’s interest in Lowe makes sense, given his ties to the club and his track record in League Two. However, whether he sees this as the right opportunity is another matter. On the face of it, it feels like the Prenton Park outfit has more chance of platting fog than getting Lowe in. If he truly has his sights set on a Championship return, he may be reluctant to take on a relegation battle.
That said, Tranmere need a bold appointment, and Lowe’s experience could be exactly what they need to steer clear of the drop.
