County went undefeated in Gannon's first four league games in charge. After three weeks, this upturn in results saw Gannon offered the job full-time, which allowed him to guide County to safety. The club won more than twice as many points in the second half of the season than they did in the first. Believing that safety would be assured on the final day of the season, he was proved correct as they managed to avoid relegation with a final day draw with champions Carlisle United. Comparisons were made to Sam Allardyce. As a committed Stockport fan, and already a legend at the club for his ten years as a player, he was loved by many County supporters. After delaying talks, he accepted a one-year rolling contract in the summer.