Lochee United have appointed Hibs first-team scout Kevin Harper as their new manager.
The 46-year-old takes over at Thomson Park following the departure of George Shiels.
He parted ways with the club after seven years, along with assistant Ray Farningham last month.
The former Easter Road star will now look to continue the Dundee side’s push to for the professional leagues.
Lochee ‘vision’ sealed move
Harper said he hadn’t initially considered another step into management but was sold by Lochee’s vision.
“Having been around Scottish football for many years, I was aware of Lochee United as one of the top junior teams in the country,” he told the club website.
“Having only recently started a new position at Hibs, I wasn’t looking for another management position but when I was told by a third party about their ambitious plans to climb the pyramid into the professional leagues, I agreed to meet.
“I was impressed by what the club has already achieved as part of their plans and immediately bought into the vision for the next three years.
“I am excited to get started and looking forward to supporting the club’s goal of using football to improve the lives of the local community.”
History maker
Harper’s last managerial appointment was with Albion Rovers. He was in charge of the League Two side for two seasons from 2018-2020.
The 46-year-old has also had a varied career at the likes of Hibs and Portsmouth, where he played in the English Premier League.
Upon signing for the Edinburgh club in 1993, he became the Easter Road side’s first ever black player.
At Cliftonhill, his appointment was the first black football manager in Scotland in over 15 years.
The 46-year-old has previously spoken about racism he has received as a player and on the touchline, as well as the lack of opportunities for black managers.
Lochee United secretary Marc Stanton who led the search for a new manager said Harper was the stand-out candidate.
‘Ambitious plans’
“We are delighted to have secured a manager with the experience of Kevin,” he said.
“Not only has he played at the highest level of Scottish football but has experienced the top-flight of the English leagues as well as the FA and UEFA Cups.
“Our search for a new manager was extensive and we met with many great individuals but Kevin’s passion for the game, and his quick understanding of our vision made it an easy choice.
“We have ambitious plans, and the appointment of Kevin is a signal of our intent to push the club to new heights.
“I wish him all the best for the remainder of the season, as we continue our push to top the league.”
