PHIL Morris and Stoke have agreed by mutual consent to part company.The Welshman has struggled to find his form of the early weeks of the season, and the Potters are now seeking a replacement.

PHIL Morris and Stoke have agreed by mutual consent to part company.

The Welshman has struggled to find his form of the early weeks of the season, and the Potters are now seeking a replacement.

Morris said: “My recent performances were below what both I and the promotion expected. There are no ill feelings on my part and I wish the team all the best.”

Meanwhile, Stoke have signed former Workington and Newcastle man Craig Branney to slot into a reserve berth at Loomer Road.

The Potters had been a rider short after Lee Smart returned to Birmingham, and Branney will now make his debut on Saturday.

Promoter Dave Tattum said: “Craig has gone well around Stoke in the past and at times been a thorn in our side, now hopefully he can score some points for us.”