Stanley assistant manager Paul Stephenson has left the club by mutual consent.

The 46-year-old first came to the Store First Stadium to work alongside manager Leam Richardson in 2012/13 as Stanley hit a vein of form to climb the League Two table.

He continued in the same role under James Beattie after he made the step up from player to manager the following summer.

After James left the club earlier this season Paul stepped up to caretaker manager, guiding the Reds to a victory over AFC Wimbledon in his first game at the helm.

“I’d particularly like to thank the players who are a great group of lads and have been fantastic throughout, even after James left,” he said.

“A large number of the players have changed over the last couple of years so I have got to know them very well and worked closely alongside them.

“I’d also like to thank the fans who have been great throughout my time with the club.”

Everyone at Accrington Stanley would like to thank Paul Stephenson for all his hard work during his time here and wish him all the best for the future.