Paul Cook has signed a two-and-a-half year deal to become the new manager of Accrington Stanley.

Former Wolves, Burnley and Stockport midfielder Cook, 44, agreed the deal this morning and will make the move from Irish side Sligo Rovers.

Cook will officially take charge of first team affairs on Wednesday, with current interim manager Leam Richardson overseeing tomorrow's match at Rotherham before becoming Cook's assistant.

"It's with great sadness that I leave Sligo," said the new Reds boss, who helped Stanley win promotion to the Football League in 2006 as a player.

"But all my thoughts now are on trying to maintain the success that Accrington Stanley have enjoyed since I was here as a player."

Chief executive Rob Heys said: "Paul knows what the club is all about, he knows that he will have the support of everyone here from the board to the staff, the supporters and the players."

Cook takes over from John Coleman, who joined League One side Rochdale in January.