May is new Falkirk boss

Falkirk have named Eddie May as their new manager following the recent departure of the long-serving John Hughes to Hibernian.

May, 41, is a former Falkirk player who also had spells with Hibernian, Motherwell, Brentford, Dunfermline and Airdrie and has been promoted from his role as head of youth development.

He will be assisted by Steven Pressley and former St Mirren, Aberdeen and Dundee United boss Alex Smith. A new position of Head of Football Development (yet to be appointed) will be created to oversee academy, medical, performance and recruitment functions.

May, whose first game in charge will be against Vaduz in the Europa League on July 16, faces a Clydesdale Bank Premier League opener at Ibrox on the weekend of August 15.

He said; "I was offered the job a week ago. It took me a couple of days to accept then I looked at who could assist me. Steven Pressley is a fantastic leader of men and a fantastic organiser while Alex Smith has done everything in the game.

"I had a conversation with him three years ago, which stuck in my mind, when he told me he was here to help young coaches. It's a fantastic opportunity for Falkirk Football Club to move to the next level. It's a big challenge but I'm confident and would like to thank the board for the opportunity."

New Falkirk chairman Martin Ritchie said: "Over the last five years, Eddie has been a key member of the football management team at Falkirk. He has achieved considerable success with our Academy producing some of Scotland’s best young talent.  

"His approach is very much attuned to the club’s focus on bringing through our young players.  The new football management structure we are proposing is already proven in many parts of Europe and we believe can serve Falkirk well."

SPL Managerial Factfile