Oldham Athletic have started the search for a new manager after confirming Lee Johnson has left to join Sky Bet League One rivals Barnsley.
The deal was completed after the two clubs agreed a compensation package which also involves Tommy Wright leaving to be Johnson’s No 2.
Johnson became manager in March 2013 with Latics battling relegation as he guided them to a 15th-placed finish.
There was another battle against relegation for a time last season which finished with Latics unbeaten in their last 10 league games.
And after an overhaul of the playing staff in the summer, Johnson leaves with Latics only two points shy of the promotion play-off places.
Chief Executive, Neil Joy, said: “Whilst extremely disappointed that Lee has left the club, Oldham Athletic would like to thank him for the commitment and desire he has given to his role over the last two years and the contribution he has made to the development of the football club.
“We took a gamble in appointing the youngest manager in the Football League when he joined us and he has proved what we believed to be true at the time in that he is developing into one of the best young coaches in the country.
“He has always had the full support of the board of directors at the club especially when it has come to improving the quality and strength in depth of the playing squad.
“We wish Lee every success in his new role at Barnsley.”
Latics can also confirm that Tommy Wright has left to join Johnson at Barnsley.
Dean Holden has been placed in temporary charge of the team.
Former manager Iain Dowie is being strongly linked with a return to the club.