Wycombe appoint Dodds as head coach

Mike Dodds was last in charge of Sunderland in the second half of last season

Wycombe Wanderers have appointed Mike Dodds as their new head coach on a contract until the summer of 2028.

He replaces Matt Bloomfield who left Adams Park last month after two years in charge to become manager of Championship club Luton Town.

Dodds was assistant head coach at Sunderland, where he also had three spells as interim boss, winning four of his 18 games in charge.

"His track record in improving individual players [and] developing young talent was a key factor in our decision, as we believe this will be crucial to our long-term success," said a Wycombe statement.

"In addition, Mike shares our vision of building the club through innovation and data, ensuring that we continue to evolve and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive landscape.

"He also strongly aligns with our commitment to the academy being an integral part of our future strategy, and we are confident that his leadership will help us further strengthen our pathway from youth to first-team football."

The Chairboys are second in League One following Saturday's 1-1 draw with Cambridge United, four points behind Birmingham City but five clear of Wrexham in third.

Dodds, 38, will take up his new role on Thursday.

Until then, the interim management team headed by Sam Grace, who have helped Wycombe take eight points from four games since Bloomfield's departure, will remain in charge.

The club have already signed defenders Sonny Bradley and Anders Hagelskjaer, midfielders Alex Lowry and Magnus Westergaard and winger James Berry during the transfer window, and brought back Caleb Taylor from West Bromwich Albion for a second loan spell.

But they will be anxious to hang on to top scorer Richard Kone, who has 19 goals this season, throughout Monday's deadline day.

On his departure from Sunderland, Dodds said: "I depart with a deep respect for their leadership and vision for the club's future.

"I've had the honour of working alongside some incredible people, including Alex Neil and Tony Mowbray, who were both fantastic mentors.

"The club is in a strong place and I have no doubts that Regis (Le Bris) will lead it to even greater successes alongside an incredible group of players, whose unwavering professionalism and desire to improve meant every day was a privilege.

"Finally, I must express my gratitude to the club's fans for their passion and support, which is truly unmatched. It's never easy to say goodbye, but I leave Sunderland with a full heart and great anticipation for what lies ahead."

His first game as Wycombe boss with be an FA Cup fourth round tie at Championship club Preston North End on Saturday.

They will return to league action with a trip to Crawley Town on 15 February.