O'Ware given Kelty job on permanent basis

Thomas O'Ware had been Kelty captain since 2023

Thomas O'Ware has been made player-manager of Kelty Hearts on a permanent basis after a second spell as caretaker following the resignation of Charlie Mulgrew.

Former Scotland international Mulgrew left after just one win in 11 games as Kelty fell out of contention for a promotion play-off place.

Since then, they have won one, drawn one and lost one under 32-year-old centre-half O'Ware and sit sixth in the table before hosting Alloa Athletic in Saturday's final game of the season.

Kelty said in a statement that: "Thomas has impressed everyone at the club with his professionalism and attention to detail during his two spells in interim charge this season.

"We are sure that this appointment will prove to be popular with players and fans alike."

O'Ware, who spent seven seasons with Greenock Morton, has been with the Scottish League 1 club since leaving Partick Thistle in 2021.

Kelty say the Scot, who was made captain at the beginning of the 2023/24 season, has also been "a rock" in their defence.

He initially took interim charge after player-manager Michael Tidser left in January for a shortlived stint as Dunfermline Athletic head coach.