Southport coach applies for Stanley job (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Southport coach applies for Stanley job

8:51am Tuesday 7th February 2012 in Sport By Chris Flanagan, Sports reporter

ACCRINGTON Stanley will have an international option when they decide their new boss after receiving an application from Argentinian coach Pablo Asensio.

Stanley have told caretaker manager Leam Richardson that the job will be his if he continues to impress in temporary charge, with the Reds next in action at home to Oxford United on Saturday.

The club have also requested permission to speak to Sligo Rovers boss Paul Cook as they assess back-up options, should results dip under Richardson.

In addition, Stanley have received more than 60 applications for the job. Former Tranmere boss Ronnie Moore is one of those who has applied, as has Asensio.

The Argentinian worked as a coach under John Coleman at Stanley during the 2008/09 season, although a lack of managerial experience may well count against him.

Asensio enjoyed a playing career in Argentina, Greece and Spain before moving to England in 2002.

He has worked with friends Dennis Wise and Gus Poyet at Leeds and Brighton and is currently first-team coach at Southport under Liam Watson, a former Stanley player who has also been linked with the job at the Crown Ground.

“Yes, I have applied,” said Asensio.

“I received an email from Rob Heys to say thank you for your application and that the club will be in contact shortly. I think it was a polite email.

“I worked as a coach with John Coleman and I enjoyed it there.”

Meanwhile, Stanley’s scheduled Lancashire FA Senior Cup semi-final with Wigan Athletic, which should have taken place at the Crown Ground, has been postponed.