Michael Appleton has left his role as Lincoln City manager following the conclusion of the 2021/22 season.
Michael oversaw close to 150 competitive games in charge of City, including leading the Imps to last season’s Sky Bet League One play-off final.
He said: “It has been a privilege to manage Lincoln City over the past three seasons. While this season did not match the highs of the last, we have still had some memorable performances and results.
“Clive Nates and the board, the players and all the staff throughout the club, have been fantastic colleagues over the past three years and I thank them all for their backing. I am sure they will continue to drive the club forward on and off the pitch with some really impressive foundations in place for the coming years.
“I would like to thank all of the supporters who have got behind me and the team. Lincoln City is a special club which will always be close to my heart.”
City chairman Clive Nates added: “Everyone at the club is grateful for Michael’s contribution as manager, none of us will forget last season and the run to the play-off final which so nearly saw us reach the second tier for the first time in 60 years.
“Michael has played a big role in our continued growth on and off the pitch since joining us, helping to build a squad with real potential including players from our Academy.
“I have enjoyed every opportunity to spend time with Michael, although it has been limited due to travel restrictions during Covid. He is a great person, straight talking and very knowledgeable about the game.
“During our conversations over the past few weeks, it became abundantly clear to us both that this summer was a good time for him to look for a challenge elsewhere and for us to find someone to build on his work over the past three years. There was no fallout and no need for either side to make the decision for the other. He leaves with our total respect, our best wishes and an open invitation to visit the LNER Stadium at any time in future.”