League One strugglers Cambridge United have turned to Garry Monk as their third manager of the season.

The former Swansea City, Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday boss has been appointed by the Abbey Stadium club.

Monk has signed a two-year deal as Cambridge's head coach following the recent departure of Neil Harris to Millwall.

Harris's short-lived stint followed the end of previous boss Mark Bonner at Cambridge.

Monk is charged with ensuring third-tier safety at a club who sit four points above the drop zone in 19th place.

Cambridge's majority owner Paul Barry said Monk, 44, was the unanimous choice among the club hierarchy.

“He is a coach of high pedigree, has managed at the top level and impressed us all with his leadership skills, clarity of thinking and his analysis of Cambridge United - both the squad and the club," added Barry.

" Although he has had opportunities to get back into the game over recent times, he has been waiting for the right one.

"Like us, he sees this as a project and we are pleased he has decided to join us on the journey ahead."

Monk's appointment ends a spell of more than three years out of management for the ex-Swansea captain.

News and Star: Monk, second right, faced Carlisle for Swansea in the 2006 Football League Trophy finalMonk, second right, faced Carlisle for Swansea in the 2006 Football League Trophy final (Image: Jonathan Becker)

He was axed by Sheffield Wednesday in November 2020. He has also managed Middlesbrough and Birmingham City.

His playing days were best known for a ten-year spell with Swansea, with Monk coming up against Carlisle in the 2006 Football League Trophy final as well as facing the Blues in League One.

Cambridge have beaten Carlisle twice this season - 1-0 at home under Bonner last October, then 4-0 at Brunton Park last month in Harris's penultimate game in charge.

They are one of three League One clubs now on their third boss of the season. The others are Fleetwood Town (Scott Brown, Lee Johnson and Charlie Adam) and Charlton Athletic (Dean Holden, Michael Appleton and Nathan Jones), who host Carlisle this weekend.