Ricky Tomlinson to return for sequel

Ricky Tomlinson is to reprise his role of England football manager Mike Bassett in a sequel to the 2001 comedy film.

Thirteen years after the original, the plot of Mike Bassett: Interim Manager involves the foul-mouthed coach returning to the squad as number two to the tactically brilliant German coach, Jorgen Mannstein ‘who has the England team playing like a dream. But not for long’.

The original writers Rob Sprackling and John R Smith and director Steve Barron are all returning for the sequel, which is set to shoot later this World Cup year. Footballer turned actor Andy Ansah, who appeared in the first film as well as acting as the football consultant, will also be returning.

A six-episode ITV sitcom followed the original film in 2005, but failed to make much of an impact, and a second series was not commissioned.

Barron told Screen Daily today: ‘As the years have gone by Bassett seems to have dug deeper into football folklore. There is hardly a manager in the game that hash’t been compared to him. Usually at a low point. Sometimes a very low point.’

The original Mike Bassett took £3million at the UK box office.

Published: 17 Mar 2014