Wael Al-Qadi is delighted Bristol Rovers' 13-day search fro their new manager has resulted in the appointment of Joey Barton.
The 38-year-old has signed a contract until 2023 and replaces Paul Tisdale in charge at the Mem as Rovers vie to avoid relegation from League One. He will take charge of Tuesday's visit of Wigan Athletic to the Mem.
Barton played for Manchester City, Newcastle United, Marseille and England across a fine playing career before moving into management in 2018.
He spent two-and-a-half years in charge at Fleetwood Town, taking them to the play-offs last season, and Rovers owner Al-Qadi believes Barton was the "standout candidate" for the role.
“We are delighted to welcome Joey to Bristol Rovers and look forward to working closely with him to progress our football club forward," he told the club's website.
"Joey's experience in the game is matched by his passion for coaching and delivering results, which made him a standout candidate for the role.
"He's got a good knowledge of the league already thanks to his spell at Fleetwood and has shown his credentials at delivering results and getting the best out of the players he works with.
"We are confident that he will be able to continue the ongoing development of the younger players coming through the ranks at the club and speaking to him, I know his ambitions align with what we want to achieve as a football club.
"I want to wish Joey, the staff and the players the very best of luck for the coming games, as we look to cement our safety in League One and build for the future."
