It is with Linnets where ‘Ello’ cut his managerial teeth, replacing former Widnes boss Joey Dunn in August 2016, after a distinguished playing career which he ended as captain at Runcorn.

He steered Runcorn to a 90-point haul in his first season in charge before going 10 points better off the following season as Linnets were crowned North West Counties Premier Division champions, gaining promotion to Step 4, four points ahead of Widnes.

Goal difference denied Ellison and Linnets a play-off place in their debut season in the Northern Premier League, and he would eventually depart Runcorn in May 2020 boasting a 60% win ration in league football.

Michael would take over at City of Liverpool in October 2020, steering the Purps to a top-half finish in his one and only full season in charge before leaving earlier this year.

Ellison said: “I’m really excited to be joining Widnes as the club’s new manager.

“After sitting down with the chairman and listening to the plans he has for the club moving forward, it was an opportunity I couldn’t let pass me by.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting the lads and can’t wait to get going. The hard work starts now.”

Chairman Ian Ross added: “I’m delighted that we have secured Ello’s services so quickly.

“His managerial pedigree is excellent, and we are looking forward to working closely with him to help realise the ambitions that both he and the club share.

“There are huge challenges ahead, but we are excited and determined to see how far we can continue to grow as a club on and off the pitch.”

Matt Cross and Chris Lawton will join Ellison’s backroom staff, which will continue to expand in the coming weeks.