Wayne Jacobs admitted he would have "walked across glass" when he was offered the chance to return to Valley Parade.

As revealed by the T&A yesterday, the 38-year-old has been confirmed as City's assistant manager after a compensation deal was struck with his former club Halifax Town.

He said: "I was really happy at Halifax but the chance to come back was just too big.

"I would have walked through glass to come here. That's how much it means to be back."

Jacobs can't wait to link up with new boss Stuart McCall, whom he played alongside during City's Premiership heyday.

"First and foremost I am privileged to be asked by Stuart to join him," said the player who spent 11 years at the club as a player.

"I am flattered. I spent a big chunk of my career here, I live in the area and I see this as my club."

His appointment will further emphasise the feel-good factor following the arrival of genuine fans in key positions at the club.

Jacobs added: "This club is in both mine and Stuart's heart. It is also in Julian Rhodes' and Mark Lawn's and in people such as Dave Baldwin's, who is helping out with the marketing.

"It is great to be asked to be part of that team and I'm really excited.

"I can't wait to work with Stuart, who is so full of drive and enthusiasm.

"We now need to use the momentum and euphoria of the last few weeks to help build the squad."

Amid the hype, Jacobs is wise enough to know that success will not be served up on a plate.

"The reality is we have got lots of work to do. It's a challenge but it's one we look forward to."

Supporters have become anxious about the lack of signings in the build-up to pre-season but Jacobs said: "I would say to the fans, just be patient. We can understand where they are coming from - we are fans ourselves. But it's not just a case of getting names in and saying you've made signings - they've got to be the right ones."

Jacobs paid tribute to Halifax, where he was assistant to former City player Chris Wilder.

"I've had a fantastic two years there and was made to feel very welcome by everyone.

"I've learned a lot there and would like to say a big thank you' to Chris for giving me the chance to work alongside him, getting experience. They are a great club and I really enjoyed my time there."

The left back played eight games for the Shaymen in 2005-06 but didn't appear for them last season and confirmed he has hung his boots up for good.