CRAIG Stanley will be returning to the Silverlake Stadium next season – sporting the colours of Eastleigh’s Vanarama National League rivals Lincoln City.

The vastly experienced midfielder has joined the Imps on a one-year deal after being released by the Spitfires at the end of last season.

Stanley, 32, blotted his copybook at the Silverlake when, in full view of BT Sport cameras, he mouthed off at unimpressed manager Richard Hill when substituted during the play-off semi-final first leg at home to Grimsby Town.

He played no part in the return leg at Blundell Park three days later.

Stanley, who captained Aldershot prior to joining Eastleigh last summer, was Lincoln boss Chris Moyses’ ninth closed season signing at Sincil Bank.

He tweeted: “Buzzing to have signed for @LincolnCityFC looking forward to the challenge and a successful season #Imps”