RANGERS Academy coach Kevin Thomson has quit the club to become the new manager of Kelty Hearts.

Thomson will replace former Ibrox captain Barry Ferguson at the newly promoted League Two club after he agreed a deal to join Alloa and succeed Peter Grant at the Indodrill Stadium.

Thomson has coached at a number of youth levels at Auchenhowie and will now make the move into management with Kelty as they seek to establish themselves within the fourth tier following their play-off victory over Brechin City.

The 36-year-old confirmed the move on his Twitter account on Thursday night and said: "With a heavy heart I left the club today, can’t tell you how much I’ve loved working and representing you’s all.

"Special club, and I’m sure I will be back @RangersFC. New challenge new start....let’s go @KeltyHeartsFC."

Thomson won two SPL titles, two League Cups and a Scottish Cup during his three years at Ibrox and has been a regular pundit on RangersTV in recent seasons.