Darlington have appointed former Republic of Ireland coach Steve Staunton as their new manager. The club have also installed experienced former England international Kevin Richardson as his assistant in a double appointment.

Staunton will take over on Wednesday, after Darlington’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy tie at Leeds, until the end of the current season. The pair will take charge for Saturday’s league game at Dagenham & Redbridge.

Club chairman Raj Singh said: “We’re excited about the prospect of working with someone with vast experience in the game and a wealth of contacts. Steve enjoyed a formidable playing career and he has a strong desire to succeed as a manager as well.

“We spoke to a handful of applicants over the weekend and Steve came across as the most professional and organised. He had done some thorough homework on Darlington and League Two, our players and potential new players, some of whom he’s already targeted to bring in.

“He’s extremely realistic and is aware of the situation here at Darlington, but he’s confident he can utilise his contacts to bring players in who will improve our squad.”