BURNLEY manager Owen Coyle was not surprised that Plymouth Argyle turned to a familiar face in the aftermath of losing Ian Holloway to Leicester City.

Paul Sturrock, who is back at Home Park for his second spell in charge, enjoyed tremendous success with the Pilgrims in four years at the helm.

When he took over in August 2000, Plymouth were at the lowest ebb in their history, struggling in the Football League's basement division.

The turnaround was almost instant, and after accumulating a club and league record points total of 102 the following season, they were promoted as champions.

Sturrock, who cut his managerial teeth with St Johnstone, left to take charge of Southampton in March 2004, but that didn't prevent Plymouth from finishing the season top of the table once more, completing their former manager's good work to earn a place in the Championship.

And when Holloway resigned, they were quick to call on the former Sheffield Wednesday and Swindon Town boss's expertise.

"Paul I know well, he was up to see me about four weeks before he took the (Plymouth) job," said Coyle.

"I've got the highest regard for him. As a player he was top class. Unbelievable. And as a manager, his track record is second to none, at different clubs.

"I made my debut for Dundee United, when I came back from Bolton, against his St Johnstone team.

"I've nothing but the highest praise for him and how he goes about things. He's a lovely man.

"It will be nice to meet up with him, but obviously between 3pm and 5pm, we'll both be going all out to get the respective wins."

Coyle added: "He knows football inside out, and he's done well wherever he's been."