Russell began his coaching career at Derby County and subsequently joined Walsall where he enjoyed promotion to the old Division One in 2001.

Promotions were also gained at Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2003 and at MK Dons when they also completed the double by claiming the Football League Trophy in 2008.

Following Holdsworth's sacking in November of that year, Russell was placed as caretaker manager, before taking control of the team on a permanent basis.

[2] Russell's contract was not renewed at the end of the 2010–11 season and he subsequently left Field Mill.Duncan's final game as Mansfield Town manager came at Wembley Stadium in the FA Trophy Final on 7 May 2011 which Mansfield lost extremely late in extra time to Darlington 1–0.

[3] On 30 May 2013 he was appointed manager of Hucknall Town, although less than six weeks later he left the club as he was not prepared to drop two leagues.