Bristol City: Scott Murray makes first-team return - as the kit man

BRISTOL City legend Scott Murray is to become the Championship club's new kit man.

In a surprise move, the 37-year-old former Robins winger will take up an active role within City's first-team squad and match-day operation next season.

In search of a new kit man, Robins manager Derek McInnes turned to his fellow Scot after Murray announced his retirement from playing with Bath City.

McInnes is hoping Murray's popularity and infectious bubbly character will rub off on his players as they bid to improve their standing in the Championship next season.

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McInnes said: "Scott was the first person I thought of when we were looking for a new kit man.

"I believe the role is a valuable member of the team.

"They at the heart of everything, in the dressing room and on away trips.

"My last kit man (at St Johnstone) was someone I could really trust and did the job brilliantly, and that's why I'm delighted Scott decided to accept my offer.

"He's certainly got the personality and charisma for the role. He is bubbly and outgoing, but he has also got the club at heart, which is invaluable.

"I'm sure the supporters will join me in welcoming him to the role and I'm looking forward to working with him."

Murray takes up his new duties on May 1, but will continue to work part-time in City's commercial department, while coaching the club's junior age group teams in the evenings.

Since his last City playing contract expired two years ago, Murray has been playing for Bath in the Blue Square Premier.

Now that he has decided to hang up his boots, he is relishing the prospect of renewing his day-to-day involvement with the first-team squad at Ashton Gate.

He said: "I'm thrilled to be working with the first-team squad once more and, when the manager contacted me about the role, I jumped at the chance.

"I love the club and feel I have a lot to bring to this role. I can't wait to get started."

Murray is joint-tenth in the club's record books for all-time appearances, and scored 91 goals in his two spells at City.

He joined City from Aston Villa in December 1997 for just £150,000 and became a true fans' favourite. He experienced two promotions with City, either side of a seven-month spell at Reading.

After he left City in 2009, he spent time with Cheltenham Town, Yeovil Town and Bath.

The Aberdonian will end his playing career on 578 appearances – if involved for Bath on Saturday – and has netted 114 goals.

City managing director for football, Jon Lansdown, said: "Scott is a club legend and great to have around. I'm sure he will bring lots to the backroom staff."

Meanwhile, loan signings Jordan Spence and Andre Amougou have left Ashton Gate and returned to their parent clubs.

Unable to play in Saturday's final game of the season against Burnley, centre-back Amougou travelled back to Turf Moor immediately after helping City beat Barnsley 2-0 on Saturday.

Right-back Spence will not be involved at Turf Moor and has been told he can re-join West Ham United.