Paul Gallagher: League Two Barrow appoint former Preston and Blackburn striker as new head coach

“We’re aware that this appointment is significant for the club in the short and long-term, we believe Paul meets both those needs and we’re really pleased to have him join us.”

Gallagher, who made more than 500 appearances for clubs including Leicester City and Preston North End, retired from playing in 2021.

He held first-team coaching roles at Preston and Stoke City, where he stepped in as caretaker boss after Alex Neil’s dismissal in December 2023.

“Coming in to the club was a real opportunity to get myself back on the grass and coach the players,” said the Glasgow-born Gallagher, who won his only international cap in 2004.

“I think I have engaged really well with the players and staff, and becoming a head coach is something I wanted to do and next step on my journey.”

John Welsh will join Gallagher as assistant head coach after leaving his position at Preston.

Barrow are currently 19th in the table, seven points clear of relegation.