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Morecambe have appointed captain Jim Bentley as their new player-manager.

The 34-year-old has signed a two-year deal to replace Sammy McIlroy, who left the club on Monday after five and a half years with the Shrimps.

Bentley joined Morecambe in May 2002 after a five-year spell with Telford United and has made 329 appearances.

"It's going to be a tough job and it's totally different from what I'm used to, but it's a challenge I'm up for," he told 91�ȱ� Radio Lancashire.

"I love the place and I've enjoyed my time here as a player.

"I've coached the reserves and that's been a decent transitional period for me of having a coaching role while still playing.

"But to get the job and being able to stamp my own authority and put my own ideas into it, I'm certainly confident I can take the club forward."

: "Jim has shown in his playing career that he is a natural born leader.

"During my discussions with Jim earlier this week I was very impressed with his vision and I trust that everyone will get behind him in his new role. I am confident that he will continue to prove his leadership qualities in his first managerial post.

"We recognise that Jim has very little experience in management but the board are confident that his commitment, passion, drive and understanding of Morecambe and its fans will make this a very smooth transition.'