Former Aberdeen manager Barry Robson has landed a new role almost a year after his Pittodrie exit, joining Raith Rovers in a two-and-a-half-year deal.

The 46-year-old takes over at the Scottish Championship club just a week after Neill Collins left the Kirkcaldy outfit to take on a new role in the United States.

Robson becomes the third manager of the season for Rovers after they sacked Ian Murray in August before bringing in Collins a month later, and is now tasked with taking the sixth-placed side back into promotion play-off contention.

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They face Scott Brown's Ayr United in the first fixture of 2025, with the two having previously played together for Celtic and Scotland.

Robson, an ex-Dundee United and Middlesbroughmidfielder, was sacked by Aberdeen in January after a disappointing exit from Europe and a poor run of form in the Premiership.

He had been made permanent manager after a thrilling stint as caretaker boss which saw the club shoot up the table and secure third place in the 2022/23 campaign.

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Robson, speaking to the Rovers' website after his appointment was announced on Sunday evening, said: "It’s a great honour to be appointed as the manager of Raith Rovers, and I’m truly excited about the challenge ahead.

"The club’s potential is clear to see, and the vision shared by the board of directors during our discussions made this an opportunity I was eager to be part of."

Raith are currently enjoying a three-match winning run, beating Dunfermline, Queen's Park and Livingston in December, and sit eight points off the play-off places.

Chief executive Andrew Barrowman added: "On behalf of Raith Rovers Football Club, I am delighted to welcome Barry Robson as our new manager.

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"Barry’s wealth of experience, both as a player and a coach, combined with his passion for the game, makes him the perfect fit for the next chapter of our journey.

The Board of Directors and I have every confidence in his ability to lead the team with vision, determination, and professionalism.

"Barry’s knowledge around who we are as a club and the expectations that our loyal fanbase crave, separated him from an exceptional list of candidates.

"We know that success is a collective effort, and we urge our incredible supporters to rally behind Barry and the squad as we work together to achieve our ambitions.

"Your unwavering support makes all the difference, and we’re excited about what lies ahead for Raith Rovers under Barry’s leadership. Welcome to our club, Barry."