Paul Carden, who was a contender for the post of Chester FC manager earlier this summer, has been appointed as Gary Brabin's assistant at National League rivals Tranmere Rovers.
The 37-year-old was on a four-man shortlist to replace Steve Burr along with Richard Hill, Steve Watson and Jon McCarthy, who was successful having been the board's unanimous choice for the role.
Carden made over 150 appearances for the Blues in two spells, captaining the club to the Football Conference title in 2004.
His playing career started at Blackpool and took in Rochdale, Doncaster Rovers, Peterborough United, Burton Albion, Accrington Stanley, Cambridge United and Luton Town.
He worked alongside his former Chester team-mate Brabin at Luton and Cambridge, before becoming his assistant at Southport.
Carden took over as manager in January 2015 when Brabin left to take up a coaching role at Everton and kept the Sandgrounders in the National League but he was sacked in November 2015 after 11 months in charge.
He replaces James Quinn on Tranmere's coaching staff after he departed to pursue his career overseas.
Brabin said: "I’m delighted to bring Paul to Tranmere.
"He’s an excellent coach and someone who will work well with the players we’ve got at the Club.
"I know him well and he’s someone who will be very vocal and won’t be afraid to voice his opinion on the training ground and on matchdays.
"I’d like to wish James the best of luck and thank him for all his hard work last season."
