Former Inverness Caledonian Thistle boss John Hughes is appointed new manager of Ross County

FORMER Caley Thistle boss John Hughes is to take charge at Ross County until the end of the season.

The former Falkirk, Hibs and Inverness Caley Thistle manager has been handed the task of guiding the struggling Staggies to Premiership safety.

Chairman Roy MacGregor acted swiftly after sacking Stuart Kettlewell in the immediate aftermath of Saturday’s 2-0 home defeat to Hamilton Accies.

MacGregor spoke on Sunday of needing a short-term solution to County’s woes after slumping four points adrift at the foot of the table.

Hughes, who guided neighbours Caley Thistle to a stunning Scottish Cup triumph in 2015, is seen as the ideal man to lift dressing room spirits and mastermind a revival in fortunes.

He could be offered the job longer-term, if successful.

But County had no desire to take a manager currently in employment out of his post for what is seen as a short-term challenge.

Out of work ‘Yogi, sacked by Raith Rovers in May 2017 after an unhappy three- month spell in charge, has always enjoyed good relations with MacGregor, who is an admirer of his coaching and motivational skills.

The appointment also means County’s coaching staff of assistant manager Richie Brittain, first team coach Don Cowie and goalkeeping coach Scott Thomson will remain in place.

Hughes is set to be unveiled tomorrow in an online press call.

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