Clarke and French join Deeping from an inaugural management stint at UCL Division One side Blackstones FC.

Clarke and French were team-mates at Peterborough United.

The 36-year-old Clarke, who only made three appearances for Posh, went on to become a prolific marksman in non-League football with the likes of St Neots Town, St Albans City and Welling United.

Forty-year-old French made 18 appearances for Peterborough and later had spells with Cambridge City, St Neots Town, Grantham Town, Spalding United, Corby Town, Stamford, Hitchin Town, Aylesbury United, Kettering Town and Bedford Town.

Rangers chairman Paul Smith said: “Lee and Dan have a hard task to follow Mike Goode and his team, but they are ready and ‘well up’ for the challenge.

“We had a high number of good applicants with Dan and Lee impressing the club on their vision and aspirations, which fitted our requirements very well, and we look forward to working with them as we face the challenges that this uncertain time could present us.

French (pictured left) commented: “Both Lee and I are excited and ready for the challenge of managing Deeping Rangers.

“It’s an opportunity that we feel has come at the right time for us both as a football and personal step.

“We recognise the great work that has already been done here and our aim is to continue that whilst adding our stamp along the way to progress the club from the top to the bottom with everyone involved.

“We are looking forward to getting started and are thankful to the club for giving us this opportunity".