IPSWICH Town legend Paul Mariner could be set for a surprise return to English football as assistant manager of Plymouth Argyle, his first club.

In factfile

IPSWICH Town legend Paul Mariner could be set for a surprise return to English football as assistant manager of Plymouth Argyle, his first club.

Mariner has spent most of the last 20 years in the United States, where he is currently coaching at Major League Soccer side New England Revolution.

The 56-year-old has reportedly been in talks with the board at Home Park, with his appointment set to be confirmed next week.

Mariner began his professional career with the Pilgrims in 1973, before moving to Ipswich three years later. He was Man of the Match during Town's 1978 FA Cup triumph and won all bar two of his 35 England caps while at Portman Road.

The Argyle job will be Mariner's first coaching position outside America.