Jim Gannon has turned down the chance to become Stockport County's new manager, Manchester Evening News Sport understands. Gannon was the number one target to replace Gary Ablett after the former Liverpool reserve team manager was dismissed following the 2015 Group's successful takeover at Edgeley Park last month.

Gannon's former assistant Peter Ward, who has been taking training at County since pre-season began last week, and former Preston North End and Rochdale boss Paul Simpson are thought to be the most likely candidates to land the job.