Third time around Derek Adams makes his return to Ross County
The 48-year-old takes over after the departure Malky Mackay
Last updated 20th Nov 2023
With the departure of Malky Mackay, few Ross County fans may have imagined that they would see Derek Adams return for a third stint at the Dingwall club.
However 48-year-old Adams has left English League Two side Morecambe to return to the Staggies, looking to reinvigorate the Premiership strugglers from a disappointing start to the season.
Adams, who was in charge of County between 2007 and 2010 and 2011 and 2014, replaces Malky Mackay, who was sacked last week after a nine-game winless run stretching back to the start of September.
A statement released by County said: "Ross County Football Club are delighted to announce the appointment of new manager, Derek Adams.
"Derek joins the club for his third spell in the role, having spent nine years managing in England with Morecambe, Bradford City and Plymouth Argyle.
"Derek has previously managed over 250 games for Ross County, leading the club to promotion and the league title in the 2011/12 season, winning PFA Scotland's Manager of the Year award in the same year.
"The backroom staff will all remain at the club in their respective roles."
CEO Steven Ferguson added: "We are delighted to welcome Derek Adams back to Ross County Football Club.
"He returns following a successful period in England and has led over 700 games as a manager across his career.
"He knows the Highlands and our club well; we look forward to seeing him build on the solid foundations laid by Malky and his staff over the last two years and believe that Derek inherits a talented playing squad that are capable of being successful in the SPFL."
Adams' first game in charge will be against Kilmarnock at home on Saturday. His first spell at County saw a Scottish Cup final - defeating Celtic en route. His second spell landed promotion to the top flight.
Many County fans will just look to avoid a repeat of last season's dramatic escape when they saw off Partick Thistle on spot-kicks to secure their Premiership status.
County are second bottom of the cinch Premiership, above Livingston only on goal difference.