Robinson confirmed as Latics boss

STEPHEN ROBINSON . . . Athletic's new manager

STEPHEN Robinson has been confirmed as Athletic's new manager.

The 41-year-old links up with Sean O'Driscoll and chief scout Lee Turnbull on the club's non-playing staff and is expected to bring in an assistant – Ian Baraclough is favoutrite for the job – and a goalkeeping coach, with Carlo Nash having taken on those duties this week.

Robinson leaves Motherwell, where he had been working as assistant boss, and will no longer be involved with Northern Ireland after enjoying success as first-team coach in Euro 16.

The former Northern Ireland international, who spent the bulk of his playing career with Bournemouth and Luton, was welcomed to the club by chairman Simon Corney.

“We are delighted to welcome Steve to the club as our first team manager,” Corney told the club website.

"He has a wealth of experience, both at club and international level and impressed me and the board straight away.

“He has an outstanding reputation in the game and we believe his dynamic, methodical and thorough approach will quickly translate into success on the pitch.

“In addition, he has identified and begun recruiting players whom he believes will excite our supporters and demonstrate the strong work ethic and attractive style of play he demands.

“He has also been drawing on the extensive knowledge of Sean O’Driscoll and Lee Turnbull and has already identified additional staff he would like to bring in. We will be formally announcing these appointments in the coming days.”