Former Exeter City manager Matt Taylor to take leave of absence due to ongoing family emergency

Former Exeter City manager Matt Taylor will be taking a leave of absence from his role as Bristol Rovers mangaer due to an ongoing family emergency with assistant manager Wayne Carlisle and first-team coach Dave Horseman taking interim responsibility for all football duties.

Taylor managed the Grecians between 2018 and 2022, including leading them to promotion from League Two. He also spent four years as a player at the club between 2007 and 2011.

It is currently unclear how long Taylor will be away from management duties but Rovers have asked for the privacy of him and his family to be respected at a difficult time.

In an official statement, the club wrote: "Bristol Rovers can confirm that first-team manager Matt Taylor is to take a leave of absence due to an ongoing family emergency.

"David Horseman and Wayne Carlisle will take interim responsibility for all footballing duties.

"The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Bristol Rovers are with Matt and his family during this difficult period, and we look forward to welcoming him back to work as soon as is suitable.

"The club will be making no further comment and asks that the privacy of Matt and his family are respected during this time."

The Gas are due to face Barnsley in the FA Cup second round at Oakwell on Saturday afternoon with League One matches away at Leyton Orient on Tuesday, December 3 and at home to Bolton Wanderers on Saturday, December 7 also upcoming.

Everyone at DevonLive would like to take the opportunity to send their best wishes and thoughts to Matt Taylor and his family.