Ben Garner says his early days in charge of Bristol Rovers was "the most difficult period" of his life, as he had to step away from the team due to his daughter's illness.
Garner was appointed in December 2019 and a difficult start in the dugout was overshadowed by his daughter being taken ill with suspected meningitis less than three weeks into the job. He was granted leave before returning to work a fortnight later.
During his time at the Gas, Garner leaned on mentor Steve Coppell, the former Bristol City and Reading manager who knew well from his time as a coach at Crystal Palace, bringing him in to help at Rovers in an unofficial capacity. Speaking to The Times, Garner revealed his assistance stretched beyond just tactical conundrums as the Gas struggled for form, offering assurance during a hugely challenging time at home.
