Former Hibs boss John Hughes back in management at Ross County

The Staggies sacked their manager in the immediate aftermath of a 2-0 defeat to relegation rivals Hamilton on Saturday.

Derek Adams, Tommy Wright and Hughes were all linked with the replacement role at the Global Energy Arena, and the club confirmed former Hibs, Falkirk and Hartlepool manager Hughes this morning.

Hughes’ last job in management was at Raith Rovers, who were relegated from the Championship during his short spell in Fife three years ago.

Prior to that he led County’s Highland rivals Inverness Caledonian Thistle to the Scottish Cup in 2015, defeating former club Falkirk 2-1 at Hampden.

A short statement on the club website said: “Ross County FC can today announce the appointment of John Hughes as the clubs new manager. John is a well-distinguished and well-known figure within the game and has very valuable experience in the Scottish Premiership.

“John will retain the services of the current coaching team.”

Hughes began his managerial career as player-manager at Brockville, sharing Falkirk duties with Owen Coyle before taking over in his own right as the Bairns moved to the new Falkirk Stadium.

After taking the club to the 2009 Scottish Cup final where they were beaten 1-0 by Rangers, and keeping the club in the SPL, Hughes moved to his boyhood club at Easter Road where he spent four years as a player, making 74 appearances. He lasted one full season, taking the Hi-bees into Europe with a fourth-placed finish but resigned in October 2010.

County are bottom of the Premiership with 13 points from 18 games.

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