Stanley have appointed John Doolan as manager on a permanent basis following a stint as interim boss.

Doolan, who has led the team since the departures of John Coleman and Jimmy Bell, has put pen to paper over a “three-year plus” contract at the Wham Stadium.

Andy Dibble and Chris Scholes will remain in their current roles, while the rest of the backroom staff will be confirmed “in due course”.

The 55-year-old took four points from his three games as interim boss, including a 2-1 victory at Swindon.

He told the club website: "I am very excited to take this role full-time. I am happy, I just can't wait to get going. I want to thank Andy Holt and the board for giving me this fantastic opportunity, it is an honour to manage this club.

"Now, the buck stops with me. The players are asking questions, the staff, there is everything to manage, but I have taken that responsibility on since I became interim manager and I have embraced it.

"The first week I was all over the place emotionally, but right now I am enjoying every single minute of it. I have been here seven seasons now and it is important to have continuity.

"Now, it is about sitting down and talking to the players. There are contracts up, getting new players in – it is new to me.

"I have helped along the way being first team coach and assistant at other clubs, but I have always been the influencer, not the decision-maker, so the job has totally changed for me now.

"They are massive decisions and ones we have to get right. It is very exciting with the youth coming through and you add your own players, experience and youth team players, and it is a good mix. The future is bright."

Doolan’s first game as permanent manager will be the trip to Sutton United on Saturday, March 23 (3pm).

Chairman Andy Holt added: "Having known John for several years, I am confident he has the attitude, aptitude and footballing ability to ensure our club grows and is run in a stable manner.

"As I have said before, it is with pride I view our club, Academy, Community Trust and operational staff.

"John will work with the entire club, a club united behind a bright future. I look forward to helping John in his pursuit of the right people and to assist him over the coming years wherever possible."