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Former Accrington loanee Rob Atkinson has returned on a permanent basis after being released by Fleetwood.

The 26-year-old centre-back, who has agreed a two-year deal, played 13 times for Accrington during a spell at the Store First Stadium last term.

"Accrington meant a lot to me last season, even after I left," the ex-Barnsley man told the

"They gave me the opportunity to come out and play some games and I'm grateful for that."

New Accrington manager James Beattie has now made three permanent signings this summer, with full-back , external and striker Shay McCartan also joining the League Two club.

"It's a great acquisition from the club's perspective," said the former England striker.

"Rob's a great player, who we want to come in and play well for the club.

"I've said to him that we know he can play at a higher standard. Hopefully that will be with us and I think that it will."