Livingston appoint David Martindale as manager full-time at Tony Macaroni Arena

Interim Livingston manager David Martindale has been appointed to the role with the first team until the end of the season.

David Martindale has led Livingston to wins over St Johnstone and Dundee United this month (Photo by Ross Parker / SNS Group)

Martindale had been assistant to four previous Livingston managers – Gary Holt, who left in November, Kenny Miller, David Hopkin and Mark Burchill – and stepped into the breach during interim periods between bosses.

Now, after two wins in the league and two in the Betfred Cup, he has been handed the role of his own, full-time.

He said: “I can honestly say I owe a huge gratitude to Livingston FC, the fans, the players, and all the directors over the years as they have given me the opportunity to work in professional football and allowed me the chance to progress my own career while changing my family’s life and my own. Without having such open-minded people throughout my time at Livingston, there is no doubt I wouldn’t be in this position today.

Martindale has also helped the Lions into the semi-finals of the Betfred Cup. (Photo by Craig Foy / SNS Group)

“I spent a large part of my life growing up in Livingston and I can honestly say I will do everything in my power to continue to push, pull and cajole Livingston FC to keep on punching above our weight."

Martindale has been unbeaten since succeeding ex-Falkirk boss Gary Holt last month, winning all four of the West Lothian side’s games since the former Scotland midfielder’s departure.

Moving day – Former Livingston and Hibs boss has a new job in SPFL

Chief executive John Ward praised the manager, but also the SFA. The new manager at the Tony Macaroni Arena served a prison sentence before embarking on his football coaching career which began at Broxburn and followed into Livingston as a volunteer with John McGlynn’s set-up at Almondvale.

Ward said: “I wanted him to take the job the last time we recruited. I think we have seen over the last four games just how the players have responded to his leadership and management style.

“Livingston has always believed in the principles of constructive and effective rehabilitation, and we welcome the Scottish FA’s commitment last week to equality, fairness, justice, inclusion and the removal of barriers in the game. This allows David and others to participate in football at all levels and ensure no individual is discriminated against. We join the SFA in our dedication and commitment to inclusive football for all under-represented groups in our communities.”

A message from the Editor:Thank you for reading this article. We're more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by Coronavirus impacts our advertisers.If you haven't already, please consider supporting our trusted, fact-checked journalism by taking out a digital subscription.