League One club Bristol Rovers have named former Brighton & Hove Albion defender Inigo Calderon as their new manager on a two-and-a-half-year contract.
The 41-year-old Spaniard has been managing Brighton’s under-18 team since the start of last season.
Bristol Rovers also announced the departure of Lee Cattermole, who had been serving as a first-team coach.
Cattermole, along with Dave Horseman, was placed in interim charge following the exit of former manager Matt Taylor.
As a player, Calderon made over 230 appearances for Brighton, while also representing Spanish clubs Alicante and Deportivo Alaves. He concluded his career at Indian side Chennaiyin, retiring in 2019.
Rovers parted ways with Taylor after three consecutive league defeats without scoring. The team currently sits 19th in the League One table, just three points above the relegation zone, with only six wins this season.
“Inigo is someone I have followed for a long time, both as a player and as a coach,” director of football George Friend said.
“He already has a thorough understanding of English football and the culture of the game here.
“Inigo is an excellent coach and what has become obviously clear from our conversations is that he is full of the character, ambition and enthusiasm to not only be the best head coach he can, but to help drive Bristol Rovers to success too.
“We are all excited for what Inigo will bring to our squad, our staff, and our supporters.”
Rovers say that Calderon will be in attendance at St James’ Park to watch his side play Exeter City on Boxing Day before beginning work with the squad on Friday.