Former Blackpool duo placed in temporary charge at Chesterfield

Evatt, who made over 200 appearances for the Seasiders during a seven-year spell, takes over for the Spirites' final three games of the season.

It comes after Jack Lester's contract as manager was terminated by mutual consent after Chesterfield's relegation to non-league was all but confirmed.

Chesterfield lost 4-1 to Forest Green Rovers on Saturday, leaving them nine points adrift of Morecambe in 22nd - although Morecambe's goal difference is 19 goals better.

Evatt, now 36, will be assisted by another former Blackpool player in Miguel Llera, who is now academy coach at Chesterfield.

Llera, who never actually made a league appearance for the Seasiders, signed a one-year contract in the summer of 2011 following a successful trial.

Lester, who had been in charge since last September, said: “I’ve spoken to (director and company secretary) Ashley Carson at length and I’m desperately sorry I’ve not been able to save the club from relegation.

"Looking ahead, with the proposed plans, I felt it correct for the club to move forward without me as manager.

"I would especially like to thank Dave Allen and Ashley Carson for their amazing support. They could have not done any more.

"I would like to thank the Chesterfield fans for their support since my return to the club. Their support through difficult times was, as always, fantastic.”

Carson said: “This is an extremely sad time for the club and I am sorry to be losing Jack. Nicky Eaden, Tommy Wright and Simon Tracey will also leave the club with immediate effect.”