Tuesday 12 May 2015 12:55, UK
Chesterfield have confirmed manager Paul Cook has been released from his contract in order to join Portsmouth.
Cook, whose side were beaten in the League One play-off semi-finals by Preston on Sunday, was the subject of an approach from Portsmouth last month which was originally turned down.
But Pompey have now reached an agreement with the Derbyshire club over Cook and he will replace Andy Awford, who was sacked in April.
Cook joined Chesterfield from Accrington Stanley in October 2012, having previously managed Irish side Sligo Rovers and Southport, and guided the Spireites to the League Two title in 2014.
The 48-year-old, who will take assistant manager Leam Richardson with him, was keen to pay tribute to the club’s staff, players and fans for their support during his time in charge.
“I’d like to place on record my thanks to Chris (Turner), chairman Dave Allen and the rest of the board for giving me the opportunity to manage such a great club,” Cook said.
“I’d like to thank the staff in all departments of the club for everything they have done during my time at the club.
“Most importantly, I’d also like to thank the players, who have been fantastic, both on and off the pitch. Finally, thanks to the fans for their superb support.”
Chesterfield chief executive Chris Turner admitted he is disappointed to see Cook leave and confirmed he hopes to appoint a successor as soon as possible.
“I would like to thank Paul for the fine job he has done as manager of Chesterfield and wish him well for the future,” said Turner.
“I could not have wished for a better working relationship than the one I have enjoyed with Paul over the last two-and-a-half-years and there is nobody more disappointed than me to see him leave.
“We will be looking to appoint Paul’s successor as soon as possible and the incoming manager will be in the enviable position of inheriting a strong squad.”
