Naysmith takes over at Queens

Queen of the South have swooped to name Gary Naysmith as their new manager.

The 38-year-old makes the move from East Fife, who he steered to promotion to the League Two title last season.

“I’m thrilled to be taking over at Queens, they are a decent-sized club with plenty of potential,” said the former Everton defender.

“I’ve loved my time at East Fife and thank them for giving me the opportunity, but I’m delighted to be making the move back to a full-time club and being able to work with the players on a daily basis.”

Former Scotland international Naysmith had been linked with the manager’s job at Hearts, with Robbie Nielson expected to take the vacant role at English side MK Dons.

The 38-year-old met officials from the Dumfries club yesterday and his appointment was confirmed last night.

He will, however, not take charge until after East Fife play a Scottish Cup replay with Edinburgh City on Monday night.

Naysmith, who was capped 46 times by Scotland, had been at the Bayview club for three years.

The Doonhamers, who missed out on a glamorous Scottish Cup tie with Celtic when they lost to Albion Rovers in midweek, were without a manager after parting company with Gavin Skelton three weeks ago after they went through a slump in form after a positive start to the season.

Clyde boss Barry Ferguson, Ayr United assistant Neil Scally, former Dundee manager Barry Smith and Dumbarton manager Stephen Aitken were all linked with the Queens post but Naysmith has been given the nod.

With the Fifers not having a game tomorrow, Naysmith is set to take in his new side’s meeting with Dumbarton in the Championship.

He said: “I’m thrilled to be taking over at Queens – they are a decentsized club with plenty of potential.

“I’ve loved my time at East Fife and thank them for giving me the opportunity, but I’m delighted to be making the move back to a full-time club and being able to work with the players on a daily basis.

“Queens have some decent players within the squad and I’m looking forward to working with them to achieve success.”