Scottish Premier League club Hibs have appointed former international John Collins as their new manager following the departure of Tony Mowbray for West Brom.
The former Scotland midfielder, who spent six seasons at Hibs as a player, has agreed a three-year contract Tuesday.
“John is a man with talent, ambition, drive and determination,” Hibs chairman Rod Petrie said.
“A footballer of international renown, whose playing career spans five clubs in three countries over 19 years, his achievements make him a role model for our players.
“John has spent three years preparing for today. He has all the technical qualifications, including a UEFA Pro Licence, which means he could be considered for any job in Europe.
“John decided that he wanted to be a manager in his own right and turned down a number of opportunities to become a coaching assistant.
“John has the ambition and character to be a top manager. We have a talented group of players and a tremendous infrastructure at the club. John joins us at an exciting time.
“Hibernian gave John his start as a professional footballer. However, he is not being appointed for what he achieved here as a player but for what he can achieve here as a manager.”
Collins said he was delighted to be returning to the club where he began his football career.
“This is a club of tremendous stature with a great tradition for playing entertaining and attacking football.”
And the 38-year-old has reassured Hibs fans that he aims to continue the brand of slick football that Mowbray encouraged his young squad to play.
“I would like to let the supporters know that my philosophy is all about playing a passing game with passion, enthusiasm and commitment,” Collins said.
“Supporters want to win and they want to be entertained. It is our job to give them that.”
