The former Hearts and Rangers man has entered the dugout alongside his son.

A former Hearts boss and striker has returned to the SPFL - as his son’s assistant manager.

Queen of the South have appointed former Rangers and Dundee United forward Nicky Clark as player-manager. Peter Murphy left Palmerston after failing to get the club out of League One through the play-offs this season and the Doonhamers forward has stepped into managerial duties that will be combined with work on the park.

Assisting him will be his dad, Sandy, who was managing below the SPFL at Lowland League level with Albion Rovers. He featured for Airdrie, Rangers and Hearts as a player, managing the Jambos between 1993-94. Clark Snr has managed and coached at clubs across Scotland since, this being his third stint with Queen of the South, having twice assisted Allan Johnston. His latest role will see him guide his son on a managerial debut after leaving Rovers.

Who is the new manager of Queen of the South?

A club statement reads: “Queen of the South Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Nicky Clark as First Team Manager. Nicky brings with him a wealth of experience from a distinguished playing career with Rangers, Bury, Dunfermline Athletic, Dundee United, St Johnstone and Ross County as well as his two spells with Queen of the South.

“He also brings a strong understanding of the game and a clear commitment to building a competitive, ambitious, and forward-thinking team. Currently holding his UEFA B Licence, Nicky has been actively preparing for a transition into management, demonstrating both dedication and professionalism in developing his coaching credentials.

“The club can also confirm that Nicky will continue to contribute on the pitch, with a structure in place that will allow him to balance both his playing and managerial responsibilities effectively. His presence within the squad will provide valuable leadership and experience on matchdays, as well as within the dressing room. Across two spells to date, Nicky has made 95 appearances for Queens and scored 49 goals.

Why has Sandy Clark returned to Queen of the South?

“Supporting him in this role will be a well-known and highly respected figure, as Sandy Clark returns to the club for a third spell as Assistant Manager following his two previous stints under Allan Johnston. With extensive experience in the dugout at all levels of the game and a distinguished playing career himself, Sandy offers a strong and reliable presence alongside Nicky. His knowledge, leadership, and guidance will be invaluable in supporting both the management team and the playing squad.

“In addition, George Paterson will also return to the club as a Coach. We would like to thank Albion Rovers for their co-operation in releasing both Sandy and George from their positions. Both Nicky and Sandy have previously enjoyed great success with Queen of the South, and their return to Palmerston sees them reunited at Queens for the first time since playing their part in the club’s memorable league and cup double triumph in 2013, adding further significance and excitement to this new chapter.

“This partnership sees son and father working side by side, forming a united management team that blends fresh ideas with proven experience. It marks an exciting new era for Queen of the South, and the club looks forward to the vision that Nicky and Sandy will bring as they aim to drive the club forward. Everyone at Queen of the South warmly welcomes Nicky, Sandy and George back to Palmerston and wishes them every success in their new roles.”