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.