 King's first task was to avoid the team finishing bottom of Division Four, which would have resulted in their relegation from the football league.Safety was guaranteed on the last game of the season with a 1–0 home win over Exeter City.The first full season (1987–88) of King's second managerial spell in charge saw Tranmere make their first appearance at Wembley stadium when a good mid-season run of form saw them qualify for the Football League Centenary Tournament.