Rochdale look set to appoint one of the most highly-rated young coaches outside the Football League with South Shields manager, Ian Watson set to replace Jim McNulty.

Ian Watson's name has been mentioned for the last couple of days and now Shields Gazette are reporting it as pretty much done. This follows the speculation that Watson turned down Southend United earlier this month.

https://www.magzter.com/stories/newspaper/Shields-Gazette/WATSON-AND-MAGNAY-SET-

While Watson's name may not yet be familiar to every Dale supporter, his coaching journey suggests Rochdale have moved decisively to secure one of the game's emerging managerial talents.

South Shields finished 2nd in the National League North last season, 5 points behind Champions AFC Fylde, on 95 points. They lost in the playoff final against 3rd place Kidderminster Harriers. It was a league campaign that consisted of 28 wins, 11 draws and 7 defeats. They also conceded the least goals in the division (43) and scored 99.

A former left-back with Blyth Spartans and Darlington, Watson made the transition into coaching. He first came to prominence at Gateshead, where he worked alongside Mike Williamson as assistant manager.

It's been reported that Watson will be bringing his assistant Carl Magnay to Spotland as well. The partnership enjoyed significant success on Tyneside, helping Gateshead to the National League North title in 2021-22 before guiding the club to the FA Trophy Final at Wembley the following season. Their attractive, possession-based style earned widespread praise and attracted attention from higher up the football pyramid.

That success led Watson to Milton Keynes in October 2023, where he again served as Williamson's assistant.

A move to Carlisle United followed in September 2024 as the pair were tasked with revitalising the struggling Cumbrians. Although Williamson's tenure ended prematurely, Watson remained at Brunton Park and worked briefly with Mark Hughes

Watson returned as assistant manager at MK and worked under three different managers in Ben Gladwin, Paul Warne and Scott Lindsay.

Should this news be confirmed, welcome to Rochdale Ian and Carl.

Photo: Action Images via Reuters