ACCRINGTON Stanley hope that Paul Mullin’s departure to Morecambe will not affect their chances of victory at Oldham in the first round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy tonight.

Mullin yesterday completed a move to Morecambe for a nominal fee, ending a long association with the club that saw him make a record 456 appearances and score 195 goals.

Stanley’s financial problems and subsequent 25 per cent budget cut led to the 35-year-old striker - the club’s biggest wage earner - being put on the transfer list in the summer.

And, although he was taken off the list when no offers came in, Morecambe expressed an interest last week and Mullin has now signed a one-year deal at Christie Park with an option for a further season.

Stanley assistant boss Jimmy Bell said: “I think the transfer was a nominal fee. It was more a situation that unfortunately Paul’s wages are out of our league now.

“I don’t think he wanted to go because he loves the fans and the club, and he goes with our best wishes.

“But I don’t think it will affect the players because we’ve had bigger setbacks in recent times. They all knew what the situation was with Paul.”

Chief executive Rob Heys said: “It was not a case that we were desperate to get rid of Paul but we always said that we would listen to the right deal.”

Morecambe boss Sammy McIlroy added: “I have tried to sign him several times before and I am delighted to have got him now.

“I couldn't believe it when I heard he was available.”