Burton Albion have confirmed the exit of former Burnley man Martin Paterson following the “expiry of his short-term contract”.

Paterson took charge of the Brewers in January, succeeding Dino Maamria in the Pirelli Stadium hot seat. The 37-year-old guided the club to safety, finishing two points above the drop zone despite defeat at Fleetwood on the final day.

Chairman Ben Robinson told the club website: “Martin took up the managerial position under very difficult circumstances in January and he worked extremely hard with the support of his backroom staff, which saw the club secure its League One status.

"The club thanks Martin for his efforts during his time at Burton Albion and wish him well for the future."

Paterson added via the League Managers Association: "I would like to say what an honour and privilege it was to be Burton Albion Manager.

"My remit was to keep the club in League One and I am delighted the club remains in the division, with the foundations to improve and continue the club's success.

"I would like to thank all the players and staff for their hard work and trust. Walking in to a football club on your own can be hard, but everyone made me feel instantly welcome and I am so grateful to all.

"There were tough periods, but we came through as a collective with dignity and humility, meeting the objective of staying in the division with two vital wins out of the last four games. It was a reward for trusting our process, never giving up, and being honest and good people.

“This was my proudest achievement in football and I enjoyed everything the job and responsibility entailed.”

Paterson had a five-year spell at Turf Moor during his playing career and was part of the squad that won promotion to the Premier League in 2009 under Owen Coyle, starting the play-off final against Sheffield United at Wembley.

The forward went on to have spells with Huddersfield and Blackpool among others before heading overseas. He had a spell as assistant manager at David Beckham’s Inter Miami before reuniting with former Burnley team-mate Michael Duff at Barnsley.

Paterson followed Duff to Swansea last summer but the pair moved on after less than six months with the Welsh club following a poor run of results.

Duff recently took charge at Huddersfield following their relegation from the Championship under Andre Breitenreiter.