Last updated on .From the section Hibernian

'Hibs are delighted to land Ross' - May

Jack Ross says he is "proud" to have been confirmed as Hibernian's new head coach on a three-and-a-half-year deal.

The 43-year-old former Alloa and St Mirren boss was sacked by English League One side Sunderland in October.

He replaces Paul Heckingbottom, who was sacked on 4 November after nine months in charge.

"I think we all consider Hibernian to be one of the leading clubs in Scottish football - in terms of the history and passion of the supporters," said Ross.

"It's up to all of us to help the squad live up to that.

"We have some talented players, underpinned by a successful academy, and I'll do everything I can to make sure we're able to help every player fulfil his potential."

Hibs lie eighth in the top flight, having earned just their second league win of the season against St Johnstone last Saturday.

Eddie May, Grant Murray and Steven Whittaker took the team for the 4-1 victory in Perth, but Ross will be in charge for the league visit of Motherwell on 23 November, with Sunderland coach John Potter expected to be his assistant.

"It became very clear early on in our discussions with Jack that he would be a great fit for Hibernian," said sporting director Graeme Mathie.

"His ideas for the game and the development of the club tie in with our own.

"We want to give supporters a team that they are proud of, that will entertain them and, ultimately, help bring about the kind of days that live long in the memory."

A player with Clyde, Hartlepool United, Falkirk and St Mirren, Ross was assistant manager at Dumbarton in 2011 before joining Hearts' coaching staff.

He took over at Alloa in December 2015 and had the Wasps sitting second in League One when St Mirren made their approach.

Ross steered the Buddies clear of relegation trouble, then led them to the Championship title and promotion the following season, collecting the PFA Scotland manager of the year award.

He signed a two-year contract with Sunderland and led them to the League One play-offs, only to lose in the final to Charlton Athletic. There had been earlier Wembley disappointment in his debut season, with a penalty shoot-out defeat to Portsmouth in the Checkatrade Trophy final.

The Black Cats were sixth in the table when he was dismissed.