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By LUKE POWER, SPORTS REPORTER Published: 07: 05 AEDT, 2 March 2026 | Updated: 07: 33 AEDT, 2 March 2026 13 View comments Neil Warnock has been appointed as Torquay United's interim boss - nearly two years after retiring from management. The 77-year-old takes charge of the National League South side 722 days after he left Aberdeen and nearly 30 years since first departing the Devon club. Torquay sacked Paul Wootton on Sunday after a 5-0 home defeat by Chelmsford City - their third loss in a row - despite being fourth in their sixth-tier division. Warnock will get straight to work at Farnborough at home on Tuesday night. This is his 21st managerial gig and he holds the record for the most games managed in English football (1, 952) as well as the most promotions (eight). Torquay said: 'Torquay United can confirm that it has today parted company with first-team manager Paul Wootton. Neil Warnock has been appointed as the caretaker manager of Torquay United 'We are very grateful to Paul for his hard work, professionalism, and commitment during his time at the club. We thank Paul for his contribution, both on and off the pitch. 'Torquay United wish Paul every success in his future endeavours. Neil Warnock will take the team for Tuesday night's fixture with Farnborough and an update on interim arrangements will be communicated in due course. ' Warnock joined Torquay as an advisor to the board in May 2024. He previously took charge of them in 1993, only managing nine games but saving them from relegation from the Football League. They are now in a battle to finish in the play-offs in the sixth tier. League leaders Dorking Wanderers are some way up the road 10 points ahead. Warnock started his first manager role in 1980 with Gainsborough Trinity but is probably best known for his work with Sheffield United. He led his home city club to Premier League promotion in 2006 and took them to the semi-finals of the FA Cup and the League Cup. The popular Yorkshireman also led QPR and Crystal Palace into the Premier League. Gainsborough Trinity (1980–1981) Burton Albion (1981–1986) Scarborough (1986–1989) Notts County (1989–1993) Torquay United (1993) Huddersfield Town (1993–1995) Plymouth Argyle (1995–1997) Oldham Athletic (1997–1998) Bury (1998–1999) Sheffield United (1999–2007) Crystal Palace (2007–2010) Queens Park Rangers (2010–2012) Leeds United (2012–2013) Crystal Palace (2014) Queens Park Rangers (2015, caretaker) Rotherham United (2016) Cardiff City (2016–2019) Middlesbrough (2020–2021) Huddersfield Town (2023) Aberdeen (2024, interim) Torquay United (2026-, caretaker)
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