FORMER Morton development squad coach David Hopkin has been appointed the new manager of Livingston.

The former Scotland, Chelsea, Leeds and Crystal Palace man is to lead Livi for the rest of the season following the recent departure of Mark Burchill from the West Lothian club.

Hopkin - who left Cappielow a year ago - took over the Livi reins temporarily as caretaker when Burchill left, and has impressed enough to land the post for the rest of the campaign.

His first official game in charge will be against his old club - as Ton play Livi in the Scottish Cup on Saturday.

A statement from Livingston said: "Livingston Football Club is pleased to announce that David Hopkin has been appointed as head coach for the remainder of the current league campaign.

"David’s intimate knowledge of the existing playing squad, awareness of the ongoing need to develop the pipeline of youth talent, combined with his desire to succeed, were all viewed as key factors in appointing him to the role.

"David understands how important it is for the club and our supporters to retain our championship status, and work within existing budgets to ensure the ongoing financial stability of the football club."