Pemberton took temporary charge in early January following the departure of John Sheridan and has overseen an improved run of form with the Spireites taking 10 points from a possible 15.

Pemberton told https://www.chesterfield-fc.co.uk: “I’m pleased that it’s sorted. It’s been something that I’ve been gearing up to and it’s something that makes a little bit of sense at the moment.

“We are working with the players and trying to turn it around. It means everything going forward is as normal.”

Chesterfield company secretary Ashley Carson said: “John has done a good job in difficult circumstances and he deserves much credit, together with his staff.

“After helping out on a temporary basis, we felt that John deserved to be given the job until the end of the season. We are delighted to have secured John’s services for the crucial remaining few months of the campaign as his knowledge and experience will be vital.”

During a 15-year playing career, Pemberton took in spells at Sheffield United, Crystal Palace and Leeds United before turning to coaching.

As a coach, he has worked at Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United and Bristol City.