CARETAKER Les Parry admits he may be reluctant to take on the role of managing Tranmere on a permanent basis – should the opportunity be offered.

The popular, long-serving physiotherapist was cheered throughout a 2-1 home win over Brighton last Saturday – Rovers first win under the temporary management regime of Parry, reserve and youth coach Shaun Garnett and Wayne Allison.

But while Parry says he is “quite enjoying” the experience of managing the club he has served for more than 20 years, he added: “Whether I am enjoying it enough to want it long-term is another matter. At this moment in time, probably not.”

Parry went on: “It is difficult because I am going to jobs and that does not help. All of my days are packed at the moment.

“There is all the peripheral stuff the manager has to do: talking to players who aren’t happy and things like that. It does not bother me but I don’t particularly enjoy it.”

However, Parry is offering his encouragement to coach and assistant Allison to go after the post vacated by the dismissal of John Barnes 11 days ago.

Allison, a fully qualified coach with experience as an assistant manager at two League clubs, is known throughout the football world as “The Chief.” He spent three seasons with Tranmere as a player between 1999 and 2002.

Parry said: “The Chief was talking to me about applying for the job and was a bit embarrassed. But I said: ‘Put in for the job’.

“It makes no odds whether I want the job or don’t want it, you might as well apply for it.”

Allison has experience as an assistant at both Bury and Chester City, boasts a full UEFA “A” licence and is finishing a PhD in sports science.

He had no hesitation in accepting Parry’s invitation to help out following the departure of John Barnes and Jason McAteer on October 9.

Parry says midfielder Paul McLaren is the major fitness concern ahead of Rovers’ League One visit to Hartlepool United next Saturday.

McLaren jarred his hip during the win over Brighton and had to limp off. Parry said: “The chances are that Paul won’t be involved in training until Thursday or Friday. Gareth Edds went off with a cut eye on Saturday but he is going to be fine.”

Michael Ricketts wasn’t involved last weekend because he is ill with a virus, Parry said. He hopes the striker will be well enough to resume training later this week.

Meanwhile Tranmere are marking their 125th anniversary celebrations by reducing admission prices for the League One game against Swindon Town on Saturday, October 31.

Adults will pay just £12.50 and juniors only £1.25 in the Main Stand, Paddocks, Johnny King Stand and Kop Stand.

Chief executive Mick Horton said: “We’re very proud to be celebrating our 125 year anniversary at the Swindon game and want as much support as possible.

“With admission reduced to just £12.50 and £1.25 it’s a great chance for the people of Wirral to come down to Prenton Park, back their local team and join in the celebrations.”

As part of the celebrations, the club is planning a parade of former players on the pitch, a special souvenir programme and a special version of the half time challenge, The R Factor, featuring some former crowd favourites. Supporters wishing to take advantage of the special admission discount must purchase their tickets in advance, before 1pm on match day. Normal admission prices will apply after 1pm.