Raith Rovers appoint Neil Collins as club's new manager to replace Ian Murray

Neil Collins says he is “thrilled” to join Raith Rovers as their new manager and will “work tirelessly” to get the Kirkcaldy club into the top-flight.

The Championship club confirmed the appointment of the former Tampa Bay Rowdies and Barnsley boss on Tuesday.

He has been brought in to replace Ian Murray who was sacked from the role last month.

Collins started his playing career with spells at Queen’s Park and Dumbarton, but spent most of it down south after moving to Sunderland at 21.

He played for a series of English clubs including Leeds United, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Preston North End before ending his career in the states with the Rowdies.

After hanging up his boots, he was appointed head coach of the USL club and spent five years in the role before returning to the UK to manage Barnsley.

Despite getting the League One club into the playoff positions, he was sacked with only one league game remaining at the end of last season.

The 41-year-old has now returned to work in Scotland for the first time since leaving Dumbarton 20 years ago.

Speaking after the move was announced he said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Raith Rovers as First Team Manager.

“The excellent work that is taking place throughout the club blew me away and I am eager to contribute towards the continued growth and success of the team.

“The challenge to get this club back to the top flight of Scottish football is big but one we will work tirelessly together to achieve. I can’t wait to get started.“