Cooper's last post came with Championship side Peterborough

Darlington have appointed former Kettering Town and Peterborough United boss Mark Cooper as manager following Ryan Kidd's resignation.

Cooper, 41, has agreed a one-year deal to take charge at the Arena, and has named former Tamworth assistant Richard Dryden as his second in command.

"I know the level the club is going into," Cooper told BBC Tees.

"I really believe we can have success. I've had two or three years down here and done very well."

Cooper added: "Me and Richard have signed a year's contract, hopefully we'll win some games of football and hopefully if the chance is there to extend that then why not."

In taking up the post Cooper becomes the Quakers' sixth manager in 14 months, and the third in three months.

He parted company with his last club Peterborough in February 2010.

Prior to his departure from Peterborough, Cooper enjoyed success with both Tamworth and Kettering Town in the Blue Square Premier, establishing both in the division and enjoying FA Cup exposure.

He worked with Dryden, who was sacked as Worcester City boss in January, at the Lamb.

Darlington, who were relegated from the Football League at the end of last season, endured a miserable campaign under a string of managers.

Dave Penney left Darlington for Oldham in April 2009, and Colin Todd arrived in June to a threadbare squad. The former Derby County boss parted company with the club in late September having lost eight of 10 league games.

His successor, former Republic of Ireland boss Steve Staunton, could not halt the slide as the Quakers remained in the relegation zone for the remainder of the season.

Staunton's exit in March saw Davey's arrival, and although there were improved results, Darlington's 18-year stay in the Football League was finally ended with six games remaining.

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The Welshman had been busy assembling a squad for Darlington's forthcoming campaign when he informed the club by e-mail he was leaving for a job in the United States - before joining League Two side Hereford.

His assistant Kidd took the reins, but his surprise decision to step down has opened the door for Cooper to return to management.

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