STATEMENT RELEASED ON BEHALF OF MARTIN PATERSON:
"I would like to say what an honour and privilege it was to be Burton Albion Manager.
"I thank the Chairman, Ben Robinson MBE, for trusting me with the opportunity and supporting me in my role on a daily basis.
"My remit was to keep the club in League One and I am delighted the club remains in the division, with the foundations to improve and continue the club's success.
"I would like to thank all the players and staff for their hard work and trust. Walking in to a football club on your own can be hard, but everyone made me feel instantly welcome and I am so grateful to all.
"There were tough periods, but we came through as a collective with dignity and humility, meeting the objective of staying in the division with two vital wins out of the last four games. It was a reward for trusting our process, never giving up, and being honest and good people. This was my proudest achievement in football and I enjoyed everything the job and responsibility entailed.
"I leave knowing I pushed the players to be better and worked hard to improve them, no matter how small the margins, which is a big part of my work and process. I was very proud to be able to field some young, homegrown players in big matches and help them in the early stages of their careers.
"Thank you to the fan base for continuously supporting the players, home and away. Burton Albion is a proud Staffordshire club, with its culture and core values being one for the community and supporters. I hope I have played a small part in helping the club to move forward on its fantastic journey and I wish everyone connected with Burton Albion the best of wishes for the future.
"My journey as a manager has just begun and I look forward to my next challenge with great determination and excitement."
