In a notable move within Scottish football circles, St Johnstone has handed the reins over to Craig Levein, the former Scotland and Hearts overseer, as their new head coach.
Signing on for a tenure that stretches to mid-2026, the 59-year-old Levein has not only stepped into the managerial spotlight but has also brought Andy Kirk aboard as his second-in-command. Kirk steps up from managing Brechin City in the Highland League, an outfit where Levein recently served a two-season advisory stint.
“Craig and his glasses will be a common sight on the training ground, but it’ll be Andy running the daily drills,” Levein quipped during an interview with St Johnstone TV.
Their managerial debut is set for a Scottish Premiership clash with Motherwell this Tuesday.
What’s Next for Levein at St Johnstone?
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On the heels of their maiden league victory this season—a spirited 2-1 over Kilmarnock—St Johnstone remains in a precarious position at the league’s lower echelons, just a whisker away from Livingston.
The club’s courtship with Livingston’s David Martindale ended in vain, steering the path clear for Levein’s appointment, marking his managerial comeback four years after his last stint at Hearts concluded.
“There’s untapped potential in this team, and I’m here to unlock it,” declared Levein, showcasing his readiness to propel St Johnstone up the league standings.
In a Sunday revelation on BBC Radio Scotland’s Sportsound, Levein expressed a heartfelt eagerness to “roll the dice” once more in his storied career, this time to uplift St Johnstone.
Levein’s journey in football is long and varied. After hanging up his boots at Tynecastle, he cut his managerial teeth with Cowdenbeath before circling back to Hearts in 2000. After a sojourn with Leicester City and rounds at Raith Rovers and Dundee United, he took the national team’s helm in 2009. Post-Scotland, he re-entered the Hearts scene only to depart after a defeat—interestingly, at the hands of St Johnstone.
In the interim, Levein hasn’t strayed from football talk, having co-hosted the Sacked in the Morning podcast on BBC Sounds.
St Johnstone’s CEO, Stan Harris, extended gratitude to Brechin City for their cooperation and underscored Levein’s extensive managerial wisdom, spanning over 600 matches, including the prestigious role of Scotland’s manager.
“We’re anchoring our hopes on Craig’s seasoned expertise to navigate through these challenging times,” Harris said.
Over to the Fans
So, St Johnstone supporters, are you onboard with Levein steering the ship? Does his appointment spell a resurgence, or have the club’s decision-makers missed the mark? Share your take!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Craig Levein St Johnstone
Who has been appointed as the new manager of St Johnstone?
Craig Levein, the former Scotland and Hearts manager, has been appointed as the new manager of St Johnstone on a two-and-a-half year deal.
Who will join Craig Levein as the assistant manager at St Johnstone?
Andy Kirk, former Heart of Midlothian striker and manager of Brechin City, will join Craig Levein as the assistant manager at St Johnstone.
When will Craig Levein and Andy Kirk take charge of their first game for St Johnstone?
Craig Levein and Andy Kirk will take charge of their first game for St Johnstone in the upcoming Scottish Premiership match against Motherwell on Tuesday.
What are the reactions of the fans to Craig Levein’s appointment?
Fans are split over the appointment of Craig Levein as St Johnstone’s new manager, with opinions varying on whether he is the right choice for the position.
How did St Johnstone perform in their first league win of the season?
St Johnstone secured their first league win of the season by beating Kilmarnock 2-1, with the team being led by coach Alex Cleland after the dismissal of Steven MacLean.
What experience does Craig Levein bring to St Johnstone?
Craig Levein brings extensive experience to St Johnstone, having managed over 600 games in his career, including the national team of Scotland.
Where can fans follow more coverage of St Johnstone?
Fans can follow more extensive coverage of St Johnstone through dedicated news, analysis, and fan opinions provided by the club’s media channels.
More about Craig Levein St Johnstone
- Craig Levein’s Managerial History
- Andy Kirk’s Coaching Background
- St Johnstone’s Scottish Premiership Journey
- Fan Reactions to St Johnstone’s New Appointment
- St Johnstone vs Kilmarnock Match Highlights
- St Johnstone’s Club News and Updates
5 comments
not sure how i feel bout this levein wasnt exactly setting the heather on fire before was he but hey thats football for you full of surprises
andy kirk as assistant thats a solid choice right good to see former players stepping up, let’s hope they can turn things around for us
their first match is against Motherwell thats gonna be a real test right out the gate lets see what the new management brings to the table
oh wow Levein’s back in the game huh never thought id see the day thought he was comfy in that podcast gig, will be interestin to see if he’s still got it
levein at st johnstone, now that’s a headline did not see that comin! the premiership’s always full of shocks n surprises