Raith Rovers appoint Dougie Imrie as new manager after he leaves Greenock Morton

Raith Rovers have appointed Dougie Imrie as the club’s new manager as he made the move to Stark’s Park from Greenock Morton.

Imrie becomes the permanent successor to Barry Robson after Rovers identified him as “the standout candidate” for the role.

“I’m seriously delighted to be here and I can’t wait to get started today,” Imrie said, after signing a two-and-a-half-year contract.

“The ambition of the board and the supporters was clear from the first conversation.

“I know the squad, I know the league, and I want to get this group believing and achieving again.

“My aim is to reconnect the club and the supporters, play with intensity, and get this team winning games again.

“I want to get this place rocking.“

Rovers chairman Colin Smart said: “From the moment we began our discussions, it was clear that Dougie was the standout candidate to take this club forward. His drive, ambition, and energy along with his CV aligned with our vision in what we want Raith Rovers to be.

“We’re delighted to welcome Dougie and his assistant, Andy Millen, to Stark’s Park and we’re all looking forward to working closely with them in the months and years ahead.

“I’d also like to place on record our sincere thanks to Paul Hanlon and John Potter for their professionalism and leadership over the past two weeks in guiding the team through an important spell.”

Following a 15-year career as a player, Imrie began his coaching career with Livingston but took on his first managerial job at Morton in 2023. Since then he has built a reputation as an organiser and motivator, notably taking his side to a 16-match unbeaten run in the 2023/24 season that included knocking Premiership side Motherwell out of the Scottish Cup.

Morton said they were disappointed to see the manager leave Cappielow but said that they would not stand in his way after Raith’s interest was apparent.

A club statement added: “We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Dougie for his hard work, commitment, and contribution over the past few years.

“He stepped into his first managerial role at a very challenging time, with the club sitting at the bottom of the Championship and played a pivotal role in stabilising our position.

“His tenure brought solid league finishes, near misses in the promotion play-offs, and memorable cup performances – including the unforgettable victory over Motherwell under the Cappielow lights.

“Technical head coach Billy Davies will now assume interim charge of the first team. The club will begin internal discussions regarding the next steps in the coming days and will update supporters in due course.”