Former Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew has been appointed as the new manager of Kelty Hearts, marking his first senior managerial role.

The 38-year-old takes over the League One side following the departure of Michael Tidser and assistant Kevin McDonald, who left for Dunfermline Athletic in the Scottish Championship.

🇱🇻 NEW MANAGEMENT TEAM APPOINTED 🇱🇻

Kelty Hearts are delighted to welcome Charlie Mulgrew as the new 1st Team Manager at New Central Park. The former Scotland international defender replaces Michael Tidser in the hotseat following Tids appointment at neighbours Dunfermline… pic.twitter.com/BhHGvNpRfT

— Kelty Hearts FC 🇱🇻 (@KeltyHeartsFC) January 17, 2025

Mulgrew, who retired from playing in 2023, has been steadily working towards a career in coaching. He’s managed the U18s at Hamilton Accies, where he helped develop young talent. Despite being interviewed for Celtic’s B Team manager role last summer, he missed out on the position to Johnny Hayes.

However, he has been at Lennoxtown, taking in Brendan Rodgers’ coaching sessions and learning from the Celtic manager. He also made a few trips down south.

The Kelty Hearts job provides Mulgrew with his first opportunity to take the reins at senior level, a challenge he will no doubt relish as he embarks on the next chapter of his footballing journey.

Mulgrew will manage former Celtic teammate Scott Allan at Kelty. The pair played together during Ronny Deila’s tenure at Celtic Park and will now aim to guide the Fife-based side as they continue their push in League One.

Kelty Hearts currently sit three points of league leaders Stenhousemuir in League One, and Mulgrew’s appointment signals a fresh start for the club.

Mulgrew brings a wealth of experience from his playing career, which included stints at Celtic, Aberdeen, Blackburn Rovers, Dundee United and Scotland.