MacDonald handed Swindon reins

Swindon Town have named Kevin MacDonald as their new manager, with the Scot replacing Paolo Di Canio who resigned earlier this month.

MacDonald, who spent 17 years at Aston Villa as a coach and had a spell in caretaker charge in the autumn of 2010, arrives with Town three points behind League One leaders Doncaster.

Chairman Jed McCrory said: "This is a hugely important appointment at a significant moment in Swindon's recent history and we are delighted to appoint a football man of Kevin's calibre as our new manager.

"This is a clear message that the new Board is determined to drive on for promotion this season and continue to try and bring success to Swindon.

"Kevin has fantastic football credentials as a double-winner with Liverpool during his playing days and he is an excellent coach. He has great connections with top players and he is a proper football man.

"We have every faith for Kevin now to lead Swindon from the front at a pivotal moment in the campaign. It is a new start for Kevin and for our new board of directors and we move forward together with every confidence."