Tony Docherty appointed new Dundee manager as 'outstanding candidate' shines after Gary Bowyer sacking

Tony Docherty has been appointed the new Dundee manager taking over from Gary Bowyer who left at the end of the season.

The Kilmarnock assistant manager was the "outstanding candidate" after a thorough search by the Dens Park board following Bowyer's departure. Former St Johnstone manager Callum Davidson was the favourite to take the job but turned it down in a last-minute u-turn. Docherty, who has been Derek McInnes' assistant at St Johnstone, Bristol City, Aberdeen and Killie, will take his first steps into management after also coaching with Tayside rivals Dundee United at the start of his career.

Dundee technical director Gordon Strachan praised Docherty for his coaching skills after working alongside him when he was in charge of the national team. Strachan said: "Tony is a guy that has been there and done it in Scottish football, at a number of clubs alongside Derek. I had the privilege to witness Tony’s coaching skills first-hand when he joined the Scotland coaching team.

"We know that next season is a big one for the club and Tony knows what it takes to win matches in this league, and that’s what we need. I’m thrilled we’ve got Tony onboard.”

While, Dundee managing director John Nelms said: "I am delighted with Tony’s appointment. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge of our game, having been in the dugout for over 750 matches including national team experiences, European nights, and trophy-lifting moments here domestically. Tony’s leadership, work ethic, and humility will go a long way to bringing Dundee success in the coming years."

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