'Proud' Cowie confirmed as permanent County boss

Ross County have now confirmed Don Cowie (right) and his management team

Don Cowie expressed himself "immensely proud" after being officially confirmed as Ross County manager - and he has been joined on the coaching staff by brother Paul, who recently left Dundee United.

County chairman Roy MacGregor had told BBC Scotland in May that 41-year-old caretaker boss Don was always getting the job permanently even before their Scottish Premiership play-off final win over Raith Rovers retained their top-flight status.

But only now has the Dingwall club made a public announcement, with chief executive and former County team-mate Steven Ferguson explaining that "we wanted to give him time to build his department" before confirming a one-year rolling contract.

Former County defender Carl Tremarco, who had worked with the first team under previous manager Malky Mackay, has been appointed assistant manager.

"Don and Carl’s record at home in interim charge was fantastic, with memorable wins against Hearts, Hibs and Rangers, and we will be looking to continue this as well as improving our away form," Ferguson told the club website.

Paul Cowie, who last month left his role of United's academy director, will be a first-team coach as well as overseeing performance analysis, with Enda Barron exiting as head of football recruitment, scouting and analysis "to pursue new opportunities".

Ferguson described Paul Cowie's arrival as "a fantastic capture", with Don saying his brother "did a great job at Dundee United and he felt he was ready for a role in a first-team environment".

"I am immensely proud," Don Cowie, who became caretaker after Derek Adams' exit in February, added. "It is no secret the long affinity I have had with the club and to be appointed in this role full-time is an honour for me and my family."