Livingston appoint former Scotland and Hearts defender Christophe Berra as new first team coach

Livingston have appointed former Scotland defender Christophe Berra as their new first team coach.

The appointment comes as Neil Hastings replaces Marvin Bartley as assistant manager of the Lions following the Englishman’s departure to Queen of the South.

Ex Hearts skipper Berra, who also played in the English Premier League and earned 40 Scotland caps, joins David Martindale’s backroom staff from Raith Rovers.

The 37-year-old had a short spell as first team coach of the Kirkcaldy club after hanging up his boots at the end of last season.

The Livingston manager says he is delighted with the new appointments.

Martindale said: “I’m delighted to announce that Neil Hastings has agreed to become the new assistant manager at Livingston Football Club following the departure of Marvin Bartley to Queen of the South.

“It was year ago that Neil joined the backroom staff at Livingston as a first team coach and he has proved to be a huge asset for the team and resultantly, I felt it was important to reward him with the position of assistant manager.

“It’s certainly a step up in terms of responsibility but one that I have no doubt Neil will take in his stride.

“I’m also pleased to announce that Christophe Berra will come in and fill the first team coaching role that Neil will leave behind by stepping up.

“Christophe was a highly respected footballer and I believe he will become a hugely important member of my backroom team. He brings a wealth of experience as a professional footballer at the top level having had a top career as a defender.

“Christophe will bring a huge amount of that experience into the club given what he’s done and where he’s been over that playing career, albeit, he is in the early stages of his coaching career. I’m looking forward to getting him on the training field and working alongside him.”