Plymouth Argyle are set to sign former player Paul Mariner as their head coach. The New England Revolution assistant will head back to England after about 20 years in the USA and will be installed as the Greens assistant manager to work under Paul Sturrock.

"Paul Mariner is not only an Argyle legend, but has established himself as a highly-respected and leading coach in American Major League Soccer and internationally, including in Japan," said Argyle chairman Sir Roy Gardner.

"He will bring his own style and a wealth of experience to the club, supporting the development of the football side of the club with Paul Sturrock.

"This is an appointment which will cause a tingle to run down the spine of any Pilgrim."

56-year old Mariner scored 56 goals in 135 appearances for Plymouth before being signed by Ipswich manager Bobby Robson in 1976.