Stanley’s pre-season friendly with Burnley will be a testimonial match for Accrington management duo John Coleman and Jimmy Bell.

The duo spent almost 13 years in their first spell with the Reds from 1999-2012 taking Stanley from the UniBond First Division into the Football League before their switch to Rochdale.

They returned to the club in September 2014.

“We were promised a testimonial the first time we were here after 10 years service but it never happened,” said Coleman.

“We were originally meant to play Burnley for mine but we ended up playing them as part of the ‘Save our Stanley’ campaign (when the club faced a winding up order) and so it never came about.

“After we had left, Jimmy’s testimonial was fixed against Burnley but then it wasn’t played because the pitch had been reseeded.

“So this will be a joint one for both of us and Sean Dyche has kindly offered to bring his team here for it. Pre-season games against Burnley always have a competitive edge and this one will be no different. I won’t be bringing myself on though!”

“This is a fitting way to mark John and Jimmy’s contribution to the club over a long period of time,” added Stanley Chairman Peter Marsden. “It’s a high profile, exciting friendly and we’re sure it will be a great day.”