Dan Gleeson will make a 'seamless transition' from player to player/first-team coach with Lowestoft Town according to joint boss Ady Gallagher.

Gleeson has made the step up to the Blues management team alongside Gallagher and Micky Chapman for the rest of the season after Craig Fleming departed for Southampton.

The former Luton man has been taking charge of first team training this week ahead of the Trawlerboys' Conference North clash at North Ferriby United this weekend and Gallagher has been impressed with what he's seen so far.

'He has got a massive amount of respect among the lads,' said Gallagher.

'He can be one of the boys but he knows when to switch on when game time comes. There won't be any issues and I think he will make a seamless transition. I've been incredibly impressed so far.'

Whilst Gleeson has been temporarily put on the management team it is an arrangement that could become permanent should he help steer the Blues clear of the relegation zone in their final nine games.

Gallagher said the 30-year-old has already started to imprint his own ideas on the squad.

'As soon as we knew what the situation was (with Fleming) we spoke to Gleese and he is very enthusiastic about it. We didn't consider anyone else for the role,' said Gallagher.

'I can safely say from what I've seen so far that the coaching side will be in very safe hands. He's got his own ideas and is very keen to take on the responsibility.'

Lowestoft always knew the day would come when Fleming headed for pastures new and Gallagher can fully understand his decision to swap Crown Meadow for St Mary's.

'It was inevitable over time – Flem wants to coach at the highest level he possibly can,' said Gallagher.

'Blackpool came sniffing earlier in the season but that didn't work out but when this opportunity came along it was one that he couldn't turn down. He has got to look after himself and further his own career.'

Fleming will not be at the game this afternoon as the new management team settles down and they will have their work cut out getting their first victory at North Ferriby this afternoon. The Villagers beat Lowestoft 2-1 at Crown Meadow.

'They are an experienced side at this level and it showed when we played them,' said Gallagher.

'It's going to be tough but we know we can go there and get a result.'

Jack Ainsley completes the second of his two-match ban after accumulating 10 bookings and is unavailable. Gleeson is a major doubt with an long-standing back injury whilst Danny Crow is still recovering from a shoulder problem.