GARY BOLLAN has been appointed as the new manager of Cowdenbeath.

The Blue Brazil have this afternoon confirmed that the former Livingston, Airdrie and Forfar Athletic boss has been installed as Billy Brown's replacement.

It is believed that the 44-year-old - who left Forfar in September - was chosen ahead of candidates such as former player and manager Colin Cameron and ex-Dumbarton and St Mirren boss Ian Murray.

It brings a two-week search to find a replacement for Brown, who stepped down on November 1, to an end.

Chairman Donald Findlay said: "I am really glad to be able to now confirm Gary's appointment as our new manager.

"He has an absolute wealth of experience and great knowledge of the players and teams in our division and above. He also very much has a proven track record.

"He really impressed at interview by setting out clearly his plans for the club and his determination to succeed.

"His people have already been watching us in the past couple of games.  At present we are bottom of the league, but with two thirds of the season ahead, we now move forward with renewed impetus under Gary’s leadership.

"I would simply now ask every Cowdenbeath fan, indeed anyone with Cowden’s interests at heart, to unite behind Gary and the team – there is hard work in front of us but your backing and support is vital  as we tackle the challenges ahead."

Bollan will meet the players and take training for the first time tonight before taking his seat in the dugout for Saturday's home clash with Annan Athletic.