Stockport County’s Director of Youth Development, Alan Lord, is to head up the management team at Stockport Town.

Lord will take on the role part-time as the two clubs forge closer links.

The relationship will include a sharing of management and coaching knowledge and extended playing opportunities for the development players at County and those coming through the academy.

Alan Lord told the Stockport Town website: “Stockport County have some exceptional young players but they need that next level.

“My management team and myself now have the opportunity to merge these players with the existing playing staff at Stockport Town FC.

“It’s an exciting project for both clubs, who will offer time energy and commitment to make it a success.”

Stockport County lost out in the National League North play-offs, while Stockport Town reached the Cheshire Senior Cup final.

County manager Jim Gannon said: “This relationship is a perfect fit and provides a fantastic opportunity for our current young players and the existing players at Stockport Town.

“Our young players have done well at under-19, under-21 and Cheshire Senior Cup level within the club, and the opportunity to add another level of experience playing regular semi-professional football under Alan Lord is exceptional.”