GED Brannan has left Morecambe to rejoin their League Two rivals Accrington Stanley as their assistant manager.

Brannan, who had been in charge of the Shrimps for nearly six months after taking over from Derek Adams in the hot seat, as returned to Stanley after a compensation release clause in his contract was met.

Brannan both played and worked for Stanley and played a big part in the development of the club's current players Liam Coyle, Jack Nolan, Tommy Leigh and Dan Martin.

Former Manchester City player Brannan came within touching distance of guiding Morecambe to one of their highest League Two points totals, as they finished 15th in the table.

 

In a message posted on the Morecambe website, Brannan said: “Firstly, I’d like to thank all involved with Morecambe Football Club, from the board to the players, the backroom staff, those working behind the scenes and the fans, for their support during my time at the Club.

“It was always a goal of mine to become a first team manager, so to be able to do that at a Club which I hold so close to my heart has been a dream come true.

“Leaving Morecambe has undoubtedly been the hardest decision of my life and one which wasn’t taken lightly, though I feel it is the right time for me and my family to step away.

 

“I mean every word when I say it truly saddens me to leave, though I don’t see a way in which I could continue given the current situation.

“To be up against what we have been with staffing issues, ownership challenges, the embargo, points deduction and late wages, I couldn’t be prouder of what we have achieved this season.

“In light of these challenges, what has become even more apparent to me over the past seven months is just how special this club is, with excellent support inside and out. The fans must stick together more than ever to keep pushing forward.

“I wish everyone involved with Morecambe all the very best moving forward, and I thank you once more for allowing me to manage this great football club.”