Wakefield AFC have announced that former Shirebrook Town boss Stephen Bodle has been appointed as the NCEL Division One side's new first team manager following the departure last week of Junior Roberti.

Bodle will be joined by Lee Needham as his assistant - the pair guided Shirebrook to promotion to Step 5 last season and this time round had been in the dugout at another former NCEL side, Clay Cross Town, in the United Counties League.

The duo take the reins with immediate effect so their first game in charge will be Wakefield's FA Vase tie on Sunday at the Millennium Stadium against North Shields.

Bodle told the club's website: "I am absolutely delighted to be joining Wakefield AFC.

"It’s a club that has huge potential and, when you look at the infrastructure, the facilities, squad and fan base, it’s the place to be if you want to be successful.

"I have experienced the noise the fans make and I cannot wait to hopefully get us back in and around the play-offs and experience the atmosphere the fans create!"

Wakefield AFC chairman Gui Decca added: "First, I would like to thank all the managers that applied for the role. Some great candidates and it’s humbling to get 30+ CVs for such a young club/project.

"Ultimately, I believe Stephen is the best choice for the club.

"He has a solid recent track record, understands non-league football, and possesses the personality traits we seek to foster a positive environment while also increasing commitment, intensity and accountability.

"Moreover, he knows what works in non-league football and is accustomed to working with good budgets and high expectations.

"In many ways, he is the ideal fit for us right now, and we are fortunate to have him on board."