 On 5 October, it was announced that the former Republic of Ireland national team manager, Steve Staunton, had been appointed as the new permanent manager of the club.In addition to Staunton, the club brought in former Sunderland coach, Kevin Richardson, as his assistant.The pair did not start their roles until later that week, while Liddle finished his role as caretaker manager after the Football League Trophy tie against Leeds United on 6 October.