Robertson lined up for shock Inverness return

Hearts legend to succeed Foran as Caley Jags boss

John Robertson will be introduced as Caley Thistle’s new manager today when he makes a shock return to Caledonian Stadium.

Robertson, who has been working in an ambassadorial role with Hearts, has been chosen by new Inverness chairman Willie Finlayson to replace Richie Foran, who was sacked last month.

Robertson is a familiar face to Caley Jags supporters, having served as manager for a two-year spell after replacing Steve Paterson in 2002.

The 52-year-old oversaw Inverness’ first promotion to the top flight when he led the Highlanders to the First Division title in 2004, before leaving later that year to join Hearts, where he remains the club’s record goalscorer.

He will once again be tasked with securing promotion from the second-tier after Inverness elected to dispense with Foran following their relegation from the top flight.

Robertson’s appointment will end a two-and-a-half week search for a new manager.

Aberdeen under-20s coach Paul Sheerin, former St Mirren manager Danny Lennon and Maurice Malpas, formerly assistant manager at Caledonian Stadium, were interviewed for the position.

Robertson is the man Finlayson has opted to appoint, with the former Ross County and Livingston manager meeting Hearts owner Ann Budge yesterday to finalise the move north.

It is understood Robertson will retain the services of Brian Rice, who has been assistant to Foran and previous manager John Hughes, and has recently acted as interim manager alongside first-team coach Scott Kellacher.

Robertson will be introduced at a press conference today.

John Robertson, above, will be unveiled as the successor to Richie Foran as Inverness CT boss today.

SNS.