Brian Stanton was signed by Colin Appleton in October 1986 as midfield cover, and registered with Exeter City on a non contract basis. The 30 year old, lived in Bury and was playing non league football for Morecambe at the time, Brian did not want a move but was happy to play in an emergency.

Brian was born in Liverpool in February 1956, he was an amateur footballer in the Liverpool leagues and also played for New Brighton. In November 1975 he joined Bury as an amateur, signing as a professional a few months later, he played 83 games before signing Huddersfield Town in 1979, where he made over 200 apperances and scored 45 times. He was with Wrexham on loan for one month in 1985/86 season.

After his short spell at Morecambe he moved to Rochdale until 1988 when he was released.
He then played with Colne Dynamos, before retiring from playing.