As well as four international caps, the former England captain also brings to Shawbridge a twice National League play-off winning pedigree and almost 200 Football League appearances after agreeing terms to join the Blues.

Stanley, who plays in midfield or in a defensive position, will become Clitheroe’s fourth summer signing after ending a Southern League Central title-winning season with Kettering Town.

Blues boss Phil Brown, who also previously signed the Nuneaton-born 36-year-old during his time in charge of Lancaster City, said: “Craig has good quality and as you’d expect of a player with his experience an excellent understanding of the game.

“He displays a high level of professionalism which the squad will benefit from. His leadership qualities are also excellent, and these will be a massive help to all the players.

“He can play in a variety of positions across the back or in midfield and is an excellent signing for us.”

Stanley won back-to-back promotions from the National League with Hereford United and then Morecambe, where he launched a League career that also included spells with Bristol Rovers and Aldershot Town.

He returned to non-league football with Lincoln City in 2015 as the Imps started their climb back towards the Football League.

And after initially returning to the North West with Southport, on loan, and Lancaster, Stanley is back in Lancashire to provide valuable know-how to the squad new boss Brown is building for the start of the season.