Neil Warnock has returned to Torquay United as interim manager at the age of 77, 33 years after his previous spell with the club. The appointment came after Paul Wotton was sacked following a five-game winless run that dropped Torquay from first to fourth in the National League South. Warnock, who holds the record for most games managed (1,626) and promotions (eight) in English football, joked about expecting calls from bigger clubs.

Warnock has been advising Torquay's owners since they took the club out of administration in summer 2024, helping appoint Wotton from Truro City. Under Wotton, Torquay narrowly missed the title on goal difference last season and lost in the play-offs. This season saw them briefly top the table before recent poor form, including a 5-0 home defeat to Chelmsford City, cost Wotton his job.

The veteran manager admits he's uncertain how long he'll stay but is preparing for Tuesday's match against Farnborough at Plainmoor. Despite his age and two-year absence from management, Warnock's experience remains unquestioned - even Pep Guardiola has praised his approach to the game. 'It makes you realise how much you miss it,' Warnock said after his first training session, emphasizing the unique camaraderie of working with players.