Derek McInnes is the new Kilmarnock manager.
The former Aberdeen boss replaces Tommy Wright who was sacked on December 18 following an abandoned clash with Dunfermline.
Head of football James Fowler has been in interim charge since then but McInnes will be in the dugout for the cinch Championship trip to Queen of the South this Saturday after signing an 18-month deal.
McInnes knows his clear goal will be restoring Killie’s Scottish Premiership status – and he obviously fancies himself to get it done as the Ayrshire side lie five behind Arbroath with a game in hand.
Despite it being a while ago, he has previous of winning promotion to the Scottish top-flight.
He guided St Johnstone to the First Division title back in 2009 – and he’s since managed Bristol City and the Dons.
At Pittodrie he turned Aberdeen from a bottom-six side into a consistent top-six team, regularly competing in Europe and finishing in the top-four.
He has been out of work since leaving the Granite City in March.
“Derek is one of the most highly respected managers in Scottish football and we are thrilled that he’s agreed to join Kilmarnock,” Killie director Billy Bowie said.
“From our discussions, it was clear he shared our determination and ambition to bring success to our club and we look forward to working with him to achieve our goals for this season and beyond.”
McInnes said: “I’m delighted to be here and I’m well aware of the potential of the club having played and managed against Kilmarnock over the years. I remember the Tommy Burns era and more recently Steve Clarke bringing good success and consistency.
“I know the backing from the fans can make this club special so for me it is a great opportunity.”
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
