FORMER Burnley striker Graham Lancashire has been named as Ramsbottom's new assistant manager.

The Evo-Stik League Division One North side have brought in the 44-year-old to work alongside boss Mark Fell.

Lancashire, who also played for Rochdale and Wigan during a lengthy professional career, will officially begin his role at the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium from next season but will have an involvement in the final three games of this campaign, starting at Goole on Saturday.

The appointment is part of a backroom restructure at the Rams who are expected to make further changes before May.

And Lancashire admitted he can't wait to start his new job.

He said: "Myself and Mark have met on a few occasions and we have the same ideas about how the game should be played and getting the best out of players.

"I have spent a lot of time studying many different coaches and managers from U18s through the National League and up to Premier League level while also working behind the scenes in an academy.

"I feel that with this along with my playing knowledge with Mark’s experience can only bring success to the club. Although this is a new experience at this level, myself, Mark and the rest of the staff are looking forward to creating a successful new era in the club’s history as we are all motivated to succeed."

Fell added: “Graham brings a wealth of experience to the club from a playing and coaching perspective.

"He’s the right character to complement our group and he shares the same ethos in terms of how we will operate in 2017/18.

"I’ve been looking to bring the right person in for some time, it’s not something to rush as it’s an important decision, we’ve had to be patient to ensure the timing was right for all sides but I’m pleased to get him on board.”