ASSISTANT manager Peter Shirtliff has left the Shakers, it was announced yesteray. According to the club, 52-year-old Shirtliff told chairman Stewart Day of his desire to leave the club on Monday.

“The chairman has accepted Peter’s decision and we’d like to thank him for his efforts whilst with the club,” said a spokesman Shirtliff joined the club as assistant to Richie barker in June 2011.

Meanwhile, a pre-season clash with League One side Sheffield United has been arranged at Gigg Lane on Saturday, July 13, kick-off 3pm.