Richie Foran has been appointed as the new manager of Inverness Caledonian Thistle on a four-year contract.
Foran has become a talismanic figure in Inverness since first joining the club in 2009 and said he is relishing the new opportunity at Caledonian Stadium.
Foran also announced he would hang up his boots following the appointment, having amassed 209 appearances and 45 goals during a spell with the club that saw him claim the captain’s armband.
Club Chairman Kenny Cameron said: “We are delighted to have Richie on board as the new manager of Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC and we believe the length of contract demonstrates commitment on both sides.
“The board received and reviewed a high number of applications for the vacant position and Richie quickly became our preferred candidate. This was cemented further during several meetings to discuss the role, his approach and view for the future.
“Our decision that he is the right man to lead the club was unanimous and we look forward to working closely with him on the next stage of what has been a remarkable journey.”
Richie Foran commented: “This is a great opportunity and one I am going to relish. My intention will be to preserve continuity at the club while bringing a new freshness and playing style.
“Joining Caley Thistle seven years ago has proved a marvellous decision. Thanks to coming to the Highlands I now have a lovely wife, two lovely children and have had the most enjoyable part of my playing career.
“But I will now give up playing to fully focus on making a success of my new job. I want to push to bring further success to Caley Thistle, a special club in a special community.”
Foran will now host a ‘fans evening’ where supporters will have an opportunity to put questions to him, members of the board and a selection of players.
This will be held at the club’s stadium and further details will be provided in due course.