Accrington Stanley spark outrage as 'poxy' 43-word statement marks end of John Coleman and Jimmy Bell era

Accrington Stanley have come in for criticism, after their short statement confirmed the sackings of managerial duo John Coleman and Jimmy Bell.

Long-serving boss, Coleman, gave 25 years of service to Stanley. The Liverpudlian took over in 1999 and stayed until 2012 - when he and assistant, Bell, moved to Rochdale. But, the duo - who took the reformed club into the Football League in 2006 - came back for a second stint in 2014.

Both of their contracts were up this summer, but 16th placed Stanley parted ways after Saturday's 4-0 defeat at Wrexham. Accrington were relegated last season, after spending five years in League One. The club's statement confirmed the managerial change on Sunday morning.

It read: "Accrington confirm that John Coleman and Jimmy Bell have been informed their contracts are terminated with immediate effect," said a club statement. Everyone at the club thanks them for their long-standing service and we wish them all the very best for the future."

That sparked outrage from both Stanley and football fans in general. But, ex-Accrington players were also mightily unimpressed.

Gary Roberts, who made more than 60 appearances for the club between 2005 and 2007, posted on 'X': 'This statement is a disgrace … they built that club, sold player after player. Spent 5 years in League 1, which is like Luton staying in the Prem for 5 years and they get a poxy statement like that... No respect!!!!'

Meanwhile, former full back Callum Johnson wrote: 'Two absolute legends, a great Gaffer and assistant. Both good guys in the game that deserve a lot more than just this statement for what they have done for the club. All the best Gaffer and Jimmy, what memories.'