The 35-year-old started his career at Ewood Park and had five seasons there in the 1980s.

Stanley boss John Coleman said Patterson, who had spells with Preston, Bolton, Bury and Sheffield United, would be an excellent addition to the Crown Ground squad.

"We are always looking to strengthen and we think we have getting Mark here," said Coleman.

"He was with Leigh last season but he preferred to come to us."

Patterson has been called straight into Stanley's squad for their trip to Whitby Town.

"He will be involved at some stage," said Coleman. Non-League preview: p32