In charge at Gigg Lane between 1990-95, Walsh was initially lined up to come in as caretaker-manager following the departure of Phil Wilson on Monday.

But Walsh was then handed the job for the remainder of the season with a view to a long-term appointment after impressing Port chairman Charlie Clapham.

The 46-year-old former Republic of Ireland international, who played for Bolton, Everton, Manchester City and Blackpool, will work in a full-time capacity at Haig Avenue.

He is being assisted by Bret Harris and former Blackpool midfielder Tony Rodwell with Walsh¿s first game in charge an FA Trophy tie at Dagenham and Redbridge on Saturday.

Walsh has also held coaching posts at Blackpool and Swindon Town and a scouting role at Sunderland under Peter Reid.

Port have slipped to ninth place in the Nationwide Conference after failing to win a league game since mid-November.