91Èȱ¬

Jim Gannon is the man to lead Stockport County back into the Football League, according to captain Joe Connor.

Gannon celebrated a year in charge at Edgeley Park on Wednesday.

Connor told 91Èȱ¬ Radio Manchester: "He's very passionate about the club and he expects a lot from the players.

"He's a real thinker and he's got a five-year plan. I think we might be able to push for the play-offs this season, but he's thinking it will be a couple of years yet."

The defender continued: "I think he's the man to take Stockport back into the league."

In his first spell as manager, Gannon led Stockport to promotion into League One in 2008.

He left the club a year later and went on to have spells at Motherwell, Peterborough and before returning to Edgeley Park 12 months ago.

While he was elsewhere, Stockport's on-field fortunes were severely affected by their financial struggles and they suffered two relegations in three years.

The Hatters are currently 12th in the Blue Square Bet Premier, in their second year at non-league level.

"I'm enjoying it but it's hard work," said Connor. "We've got a very young team. I'm the oldest at 26 and most of the players are 22 or below.

"We're digging in, working hard and learning the game. We're mid-table at the moment but hopefully we'll get a few more wins and get towards a play-off position."

Connor was named as the non-league player of the year at the North West Football Awards on Monday.