The A-League aspirants are facing a major shakeup after coach Jacob Timpano elected to step down after more than three years at the helm of the NPL club.

According to the Illawarra Mercury ex-Leeds striker Michael Bridges, who was previously on the coaching staff at Newcastle Jets, will assist the 36-year-old Wilkshire.

Wolves are among 10 clubs shortlisted to fill two A-League expansion spots in 2019/20.

A former Wolves junior and Wollongong native,Wilkshire reunited with his old club at the end of last season after a successful stint with the topflight's reigning premiers, Sydney FC.

This will be his first job as a head coach folliwing a varied playing career that took him to The Netherlands, England and Russia.