Hibernian have announced the appointment of John Collins as their new manager.

The former Easter Road midfielder has agreed a three-year contract at the Bank of Scotland Premier League club.

Collins succeeds Tony Mowbray following the Englishman's departure to West Brom earlier this month.

Hibs chairman Rod Petrie insists Collins has been chosen for his experience and ability and not because of his links with the club.

Collins joined Hibs in 1984 before becoming Celtic's first million pound player in 1990.

The former Scotland star went on to play for Monaco, Everton and Fulham.

Petrie told the Edinburgh club's official website, www.hibernianfc.co.uk: "John is a man with talent, ambition, drive and determination.

"John has spent three years preparing for today. He has all the technical qualifications, including a UEFA Pro Licence, which means he could be considered for any job in Europe.

"John decided that he wanted to be a manager in his own right and turned down a number of opportunities to become a coaching assistant.

"Hibernian gave John his start as a professional footballer. However, he is not being appointed for what he achieved here as a player but for what he can achieve here as a manager."

Collins said: "I am delighted to be taking up the managerial position at Hibernian and returning to the club where I started my football career.

"This is a club of tremendous stature with a great tradition for playing entertaining and attacking football."

And the 38-year-old has reassured Hibs fans that he aims to continue the brand of slick football that Mowbray encouraged his young squad to play.

"I would like to let the supporters know that my philosophy is all about playing a passing game with passion, enthusiasm and commitment," Collins said.

"Supporters want to win and they want to be entertained. It is our job to give them that."