AFC Fylde have appointed Kevin Phillips as their new manager.

The former Hartlepool United boss replaces Chris Beech in charge of the Coasters.

And Fylde chairman  David Haythornthwaite is pleased to have Phillips on board.

“The search for the new manager has taken maybe a bit longer than people expected but this is reflective of the interest we had received in the position,"  Haythornthwaite told the club's website.

"Kevin was presented to us at an early stage and was invited with several others to Mill Farm for a lengthy interview and after that, was the clear favourite.

“However, it was important that we spoke to all concerned to make sure we had the very best candidate for the job.

"Once this was decided, late Friday afternoon, the weekend was spent finalising the contracts for both Kevin and his assistant, Wess and I am delighted everything is now concluded and Kevin and Wess are in the building."

Fylde are currently 21st in the National League table.