Nicholson leaves Chesterfield

Fitness coach Shane Nicholson has left Chesterfield, bringing an end to his decade-long association with the club.

Nicholson's future has been in doubt since the departure last week of manager Paul Cook to Portsmouth and the subsequent appointment of his successor Dean Saunders. The former Lincoln, Derby and Spireites left-back met with Saunders on Wednesday when he was told his services would no longer be required, with the new Chesterfield boss planning to bring in his own backroom team. Nicholson confirmed the news via Twitter, saying: "The journey sadly came to an end today but never forgotten. Time to get behind D Saunders and the new staff. 12th Man KEEPTHEFAITH." Nicholson had two spells as a player with Chesterfield, ending his career with the Spireites in 2007 and then becoming the club's fitness coach. The 44-year-old was offered the chance to join Cook at Portsmouth, along with fellow staff members (assistant manager) Lean Richardson and (chief scout) Paul Mitchell, but like Mitchell declined the invitation. After performing a clear out of his backroom team at Fratton Park this week, Cook reportedly remains keen to lure Nicholson down to the south coast. Saunders, meanwhile, wants Mal Purchase to replace Nicholson at the Proact Stadium and talks are underway to bring him back to England from the Indian Super League.