Stockport County have named Simon Rusk as new manager.

Rusk has left his job as Brighton U23 coach to take up the role of first team manager at National League side Stockport County.

Andrew Crofts and Shannon Ruth will take interim charge of the squad until further notice, ahead of Friday's trip to Chelsea in Premier League 2.

Technical director Dan Ashworth said, "It's mixed emotions for us, as on the one hand we don't want to lose Simon, but equally we are delighted for him personally to be making the next step as a manager.

"Simon has led the under-23s for six years and has played an important role in the success our academy has enjoyed in that time. That couldn't be better proved by the fact that in December, when we gave more Premier League minutes than any other club to homegrown players this season."

Chief executive and deputy chairman Paul Barber added, "Congratulations to Simon on securing his first opportunity to manage at first team level. It is one he has worked very hard for and while we are sad to see him leave our club we do wish him all the best on the next step in his career."