Northampton manager Ian Sampson has confirmed the appointment of Malcolm Crosby as his assistant manager.
Former Sunderland manager Crosby has been aiding Sampson at Sixfields for the last few weeks on a voluntary basis but has now signed a permanent deal, while coach Jim Barron will be leaving the club.
Sampson said: "I am delighted that Malcolm has agreed to join us on a permanent basis."
He added: "He has been here helping us out over the last few weeks and he has had a positive impact. The players respect him a lot and enjoy his work, and he has been a big support to me.
"Only a few months ago he was holding a similar position at a Premier League club (Middlesbrough) and we are fortunate to have him with us. He has a vast amount of experience and it will be ideal for me as a young manager to be able to tap in to that.
"His family home is up in the North East and he has had to work a few things out logistically over the last few days but I am pleased to say it is all sorted now and he is joining us full time. I think Malcolm is a key signing for us."
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