PAUL MURRAY has been appointed the new manager of Hartlepool United. 

He makes a return to Victoria Park, where he ended his playing career in 2013, after being assistant manager at Oldham Athletic. 

The 38-year-old will be assisted by Willie Donachie, who recently left his post as reserve team coach at Newcastle United

Sam Collins, the club's caretaker boss, will remain on the coaching staff and Stephen Pears will be the club's goalkeeping coach. 

Murray's odds with bookmakers Bet Victor tumbled yesterday from 33/1 to 5/4 favourite. 

He will take training on Friday morning before the team sets off for Saturday's game at Cambridge, where he will lead Pools for the first time. 

A statement released by Oldham read: "Oldham Athletic have been made aware that First-Team Coach Paul Murray has joined Hartlepool United as their First Team Manager.

"There are contractual issues still to be resolved but the club would like to place on record its thanks to Paul for his services and wish him all the very best for the future.''