Ferguson, 38, replaces Gary Johnson at the helm at London Road - where he enjoyed back-to-back promotions before leaving in November 2009.

Johnson left the npower League One club on Monday night after disagreements with chairman Darragh MacAnthony and Posh have decided to re-appoint one of the most successful managers in their history.

Ferguson, who has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract, was dismissed by Preston North End just after Christmas but has the chance to take Posh up for a third time after they moved back into the play-off places with a 2-1 win over Brentford last night.

MacAnthony hopes Ferguson can restore stability at the club.

The chairman said: "I asked him to come to the game last night and he has signed for four-and-a-half years. Let's make the magic happen again.

"I haven't enjoyed owning the football club over the last 18 months or so and I hope this can change that.

"We have both realised that the grass isn't always greener."