Former Burnley man takes on first managerial role

Former Burnley man Scott Arfield has taken on his first permanent managerial role with Scottish side East Fife.

The 38-year-old has been appointed player-manager of the Scottish League One side on a three-year contract.

Arfield briefly took interim charge of Livingston towards the back end of last season, taking charge of their final three games.

The midfielder will take charge of his first game next Saturday when East Fife host Peterhead, but due to a lack of match fitness he won’t be fit to play until later this month.

“I am absolutely delighted to be the new manager of East Fife and I cannot wait to get started,” Arfield said of his appointment.

“I feel I am ready to go into coaching after learning a lot from excellent managers during my playing career and I am grateful to East Fife for believing in me and for giving me this opportunity.

“My aim is now to create opportunities for others and to build a team which will excite East Fife supporters and attract the attention of the local community.

“It is a highly respected club which has great potential, and it is a privilege to be given the chance to lead it forward.”

Arfield enjoyed a five-year spell as a player at Turf Moor, helping the Clarets win promotion to the Premier League in both 2014 and 2016.

After starting his career with Falkirk, he also represented the likes of Rangers, Huddersfield Town, Bolton Wanderers and Livingston. He also spent a year in the USA playing for Charlotte FC.