be looking for other jobs. Gannon was reportedly working under a temporary contract, and was yet to sign a longer-term deal as had been expected. Though the board were satisfied with results on the pitch, they felt that the relationship between Gannon and the directors had broken down. Dubbed a 'loose Gannon', it was seen that either he or club captain Craigan would leave the club. Despite this he was praised for his signings from the English leagues, and for the good open passing football his young side could play whilst at their best. Motherwell went on to finish the season in fifth place under Craig Brown. Peterborough United On 2 February 2010 Gannon was appointed manager of Peterborough United, following the sacking of Mark Cooper. The "Posh" lay bottom of the Championship, nine points adrift of safety. He aimed to restore 'pride' in the club, and offered a fresh start to unsettled players. He won his first game in charge, leading The Posh to a 1–0 victory over Queens Park Rangers on 6 February. His contract due to expire in the summer, the club were keen to tie him down to a longer deal. There soon came confusion over the exact role of the manager and others at the club in terms of recruiting new players. He utilised unique tactical formations, which earned him comparisons to Martin O'Neill. He was particularly experimental with the front line, and was willing to use the loan market to bring in fresh talent. On 24 March, it was announced Gannon would leave Peterborough at the end of the season. Unable to avoid relegation despite a vast upturn in results, he announced that family commitments made him unwilling to stay for longer. Gannon had been satisfied with the board's contract offer, but his family still resided in Stockport. He was replaced by Gary Johnson on 6 April, following Gannon's own recommendation of Johnson. Though Gannon insisted that this was not ultimately his decision, but instead was down to the board. Striker Liam Dickinson was sad to see him go, and told the media that Gannon would have little trouble finding a new management post. Port Vale In January 2011, Gannon was one of three candidates reported to have impressed in interviews for the vacant Port Vale job, making him one of the favourites for the position. However, Paul Simpson's dismissal at Stockport County led