Soccer: Francis quits Rovers

Gerry Francis has resigned as manager of Third Division side Bristol Rovers.

Francis, who took charge at the Memorial Stadium in June, has left his post for personal reasons.

Assistant boss Garry Thompson has been in charge for the last three weeks after Francis took compassionate leave and Thompson will continue to act as caretaker manager for the clash with Leyton Orient on Boxing Day.

The former Tottenham boss said: ‘‘It is with much regret that due to immediate family illness, I am leaving my position of manager and director of football at Bristol Rovers Football Club.’’