Preston North End have confirmed that David Unsworth will act as caretaker manager until a replacement to Darren Ferguson is found.
The former Everton, West Ham United and Wigan Athletic defender had been first team coach under Ferguson, who was sacked on Wednesday with the club going into the New Year bottom of the Championship.
The 37-year-old will now take charge until a permanent successor to the Scot is found, with the club also having confirmed the departures of assistant manager Kevin Russell and strength and conditioning coach Scott Taylor.
Chairman Maurice Lindsay said: "We are delighted that David has agreed to take care of the club at a difficult time; it couldn't be in better hands.
"David is a Preston man. He loves the club and is one of most enthusiastic people in the game of football and he will have full support of the Club and the players."
Unsworth himself added: "I am delighted to be given this opportunity. I love the club and I will give it my all.
"I have every faith in the players at this club to get us out of this difficult situation we find ourselves in.
"I am sure the fans will get right behind us for the rest of the season and starting on Saturday when we take the field against Derby County."