Darrell Clarke has named Matty Taylor and Billy Bodin among the best signings he made during his time as Bristol Rovers boss.
The 42-year-old is preparing to come up against his old side in the FA Cup first round this weekend, with Clarke now in charge of League Two side Walsall.
This will be the second time Clarke has faced Rovers with Walsall this season, after a 2-2 draw in the EFL Trophy less than two months ago.
But Clarke has said that it will be unusual for him to want Rovers to lose as he spoke of his fond memories from his time at the Memorial Stadium, having led the Gas to back-to-back promotions during his four-and-a-half years with the club.
“It is the only time I want Bristol Rovers to lose that’s for sure," he told BBC Radio Bristol.
"It is the same as in the EFL trophy game, I want to win the game. The players want to win the game, it will be a good test for us. I’m sure Rovers have changed a lot since I have been there, it is a whole set of new recruitment, new manager in.
"It will be a tough test, but we will be up for it, that’s for sure.”
However, Clarke says he only has fond memories of his time with Rovers as he reflected on his time at the club and the success achieved during his four-and-a-half years in charge.
“It’s like anything, its about setting the environment, I keep mentioning this, but for me, us managers get the environment right, get in on the training ground, get the togetherness at the club," he said, speaking on the Having a Gas podcast.
"From upstairs, all the way through the supporters, all the way to the players, who are trying to achieve one goal, which is obviously success on the pitch.
"When that happens, its great, and hopefully with that, and getting all of that right, the results come. But it took a bit of time to do obviously, but once we got that momentum it was great.
"There is real loyalty to the support base as well, you buy into that, and you become addicted to that.
“And by the end of it I got a bit too attached to it, because I just wanted the best for the football club, and for the football club to kick on.”
“Certainly great memories that will last me forever.”
Clarke was also asked to pick out his best signings during his time at Rovers, with the 42-year-old naming several players who had a big influence on the side, from scoring goals to leading by example.
“The best signings, you’ve got to look at Matty Taylor," he said.
"Billy Bodin, I think he has been influential, I’ll tell you another influential player…Tom Lockyer and Oli Clarke as well, and obviously Chris Lines. There’s a lot to mention in there to be honest, top lads and top players.”
