Everything in place for new boss…
But Livi chiefs have still to name their man
Livingston interim boss David Martindale insists the club can be a success – regardless of who they appoint as manager.
Former Scotland and Rangers striker Kenny Miller is understood to have been offered a contract as player- manager, with the fact he would combine both roles being the determining factor in making him their top target. However, Martindale believes the structure that the club have in place will allow the new boss to flourish when appointed. He told the Courier: “What we’ve tried to implement at the club is continuity and it’s got us from League One to the Premiership in two years, so it has worked. “Realistically, there’s no way players from League One should be in the Premiership two years later but a massive part of that is the continuity. “The club has to come first and that’s the most important thing and we believe that the structure is in place at the club to allow the new manager to come in, maybe tweak a couple of things but nothing major, and give him the best opportunity to succeed. “We always had transfer targets and recruitment in place for the new season, as well as the start of pre-season sorted, so in that respect nothing has really changed.”
The club have so far made seven new signings, while several of last year’s promotion-winning squad have penned new deals as the Lions gear up for life in the top flight.
Martindale added: “We’re speaking to a couple of people about the manager’s position but it has to be the best fit for the club, both on and off the park, before we make the appointment.”
Courier Sport understands that clauses in the contract offer made to Miller are likely to be the deciding factor in whether he accepts the offer or not, with the club likely to move on to other targets should the 38-year-old not agree to terms by Friday.
Former Falkirk boss Gary Holt and ex-Queen of the South manager Gavin Skelton are believed to be on the shortlist with Holt the likely front-runner should negotiations with Miller stumble.
Livingston kick-off their pre-season friendlies next week with a trip to Queen’s Park on Tuesday night and Queen of the South away on Friday.
The competitive action gets underway on July 14 with a Betfred Cup tie away to Airdrieonians.