Darlington part company with manager Steve Staunton

Staunton failed to steer the Quakers away from the drop zone

League Two bottom club Darlington have parted company with boss Steve Staunton after only five months in charge.

The former Republic of Ireland manager achieved only four wins in 23 league games, leaving the club 19 points adrift of safety.

Staunton was relieved of his duties after a 2-1 home defeat by Barnet was played in front of a record low crowd of 1,463 at the Northern Echo Arena.

Craig Liddle and Neil Maddison are in temporary charge of the team.

Darlington chairman Raj Singh said: "It is with regret that we're having to part company with another manager during what has been a forgettable season but we felt we were left with no alternative after yesterday (Saturday).

"It was a disappointing performance and result, but the most disappointing side was the attendance - a record low crowd told us a lot.

606: DEBATE A bad move - Staunton is a former international manager and I can't think who else will come to Darlington johno

"We desperately wanted things to work out for Steve but it clearly was not to be and we will have to take stock again. Our search for a new manager starts straight away."

Staunton was appointed in October as a replacement for Colin Todd, with the club already eight points adrift after 11 games.

It was the former Liverpool defender's first job as a club manager, following a disastrous spell in charge of Ireland and a stint as Gary McAllister's assistant at Leeds United.