Martin in charge at Cliftonhill

Martin was previously manager of Dumbarton

Albion Rovers have promoted Paul Martin to manager after the departure of John McCormack to Hamilton Accies.

McCormack left the Third Division club 13 days ago to become assistant with the Scottish Premier League newcomers.

Now his assistant will take over at Cliftonhill, with Rovers director John Cornfield telling the club website that they always wanted Martin to stay.

"Whilst several excellent candidates applied for the position, Paul has been from the outset first choice," he said.

"Paul has been busy over the past few days sounding out his assistant and scouting contacts."

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Martin has previously managed Dumbarton and had a spell as caretaker with Queen's Park after McCormack left the Hampden club.

Cornfield believes that, under Martin's direction, the Coatbridge are well prepared to mount a challenge this season.

"Many of the players feel this has been their hardest pre-season training in years and they feel at their fittest," he said.

"We now look forward to an exciting season with a settled team, a manager who knows all the players, having worked with them last season, and being involved in bringing the new players to the club."