VALE of Leithen have announced that interim boss Joe Murray will take over the manager’s role.

Murray replaced former boss Mikey Wilson who resigned in the wake of a 9-0 home defeat to Tynecastle in the 2nd round of the South Challenge Cup in October.

Since then Vale have lost to Jeanfield Swifts 8-2, Sauchie Juniors 3-0, Musselburgh 6-0, Crossgates 3-1, Haddington 3-1 and Penicuik Athletic 4-0.

Murray, 38, started his professional career at Falkirk and has enjoyed success at a number of junior and East of Scotland clubs such as Musselburgh, Tranent, Haddington, Edinburgh United and more recently Lothian Thistle Hutchison Vale.

He said: “I have kind of known for a while that the committee weren’t intending to interview anyone else for the job, but I’m delighted.

“Although the results haven’t improved, I think the performances have been better.

“Our next game is against Crossgates on January 7 and I’ve said to the players that I want them to start the year with a fresh mentality. We can’t go into games expecting to get beat, because if we do then that’s what will happen. It’s a pet hate of mine.

“I know what I can do and I have ideas on how I want us to play. I already have a game plan in mind for the Crossgates game. We played them recently so that should show where we are.

“Hopefully we can get a few back from injury and maybe bring in a couple.”

Committee member Bobby Craigie said: “Appointing Joe was a unanimous decision. I’ve been impressed with him since he took over from Mikey Wilson and the performances have improved, if not the results.

“He has a great way of communicating with the players and I am sure he will go on to be a good manager.”