Lawrie Sanchez appointed as Barnet boss

Sanchez has landed a first managerial role in almost three and a half years

Barnet have appointed Lawrie Sanchez as their new manager, with Giuliano Grazioli as his assistant.

Sanchez took over as a consultant for the last four games, winning two and drawing one as the Bees avoided relegation from the Football League.

Former Bees striker Grazioli was caretaker boss for their final five matches, following Martin Allen's switch to Notts County.

Barnet escaped relegation on the final day by beating Port Vale 1-0.

Sanchez's previous managerial experience came with Wycombe, Northern Ireland and Fulham, whom he left in 2007.

Barnet had four managers in charge during the season. Mark Stimson was sacked on New Year's Day, to be replaced by Paul Fairclough as caretaker boss.

Allen took over in March but left three games later, with Grazioli taking over for the remainder of the season.

Sanchez told the club website: "I am very pleased to be back in the game - although it can be very frustrating at times. Being at Barnet in recent weeks has rekindled my love for the game - that was the third time I have been involved in saving clubs from relegation.

"I am pleased that Giuliano Grazioli is to be part of my staff and I must say that I have been impressed with the players here. The form in the final games ranked as automatic promotion form and I am sure a lot more can be achieved with the players here.

"I have known the chairman through football over the years and was pleased to get his call to come in as a consultant. I am sure we will have a good working relationship."

Chairman Tony Kleanthous said: "I am absolutely delighted. We found the successful combination when we needed it and it is great that we are able to continue with it into next season. I believe that Lawrie, with Grazioli backing up, is the right man to lead us forward."

Barnet were 11 points behind Lincoln on 8 March having played a game more but leapfrogged them on the final day to survive the drop to the Blue Square Bet Premier.