Moss had been in talks with Saunders since Sunday and the former Wales international watched a practice match at The Racecourse on Tuesday afternoon.

Dean Saunders finally accepted the offer and Moss was delighted with the capture: "Dean did not apply for the job, I chased him all week," he said.

"I took him for a few drinks on Sunday night and eventually he got round to the way of thinking that maybe he would have a go and do this.

"I did not think I could tempt him but we had a good meeting. Then he rang to say he couldn't sleep because he had all sorts of ideas.

"All the way through it was 50-50 until Wednesday morning and he asked if we could have a chat.

"We had a three-hour meeting and I realised then we were on 70-30 that he wanted to do it, and we then sorted it.

"Roy Evans advised him to take it so I am absolutely delighted. I don't know who is more excited – Dean or me."

"After last Friday I went home and thought, 'what do I do next?' added Moss.

"I said a little prayer to the gods and said, 'please help with me with the next manager, please make sure I get it right'.

"About 3am I woke up startled – 'it's the football god in Wales here. I can't make it so I'll send you my number two'.

"So thank John for allowing Dean to come because it wouldn't have been possible without his say so.

"I'm very excited about it all because I know Dean will have a very good relationship, we already do. He has good his own ideas, he is his own man and I won't be picking the team – he wouldn't let me anyway!

"I am delighted to welcome Dean here and I know no-one will work harder than him, have more energy or have more enthusiasm."