'Perfect fit' as Neilson becomes head coach of Tampa Bay Rowdies

Robbie Neilson is relishing a "fantastic opportunity" at Tampa Bay Rowdies after heading Stateside to take his first managerial job since his Hearts sacking in April.

Rowdies, who play in the USL Championship - the tier below MLS - say the former Tynecastle defender and boss has signed a "multi-year" contract as head coach.

Chairman vice-chairman Brian Auld hailed Neilson's ability to "take teams under his leadership to new heights" and says he is the "perfect fit".

The 43-year-old replaces former Motherwell and Rangers midfielder Nicky Law, who takes the role of assistant after leading the team in the second half of the 2023 season.

Neilson, 43, said: “It’s truly a great set-up for soccer here in Tampa Bay. There is a great training ground and all the facilities you need for the team to continue to progress and be successful.

"A big thing for me making the decision to come here is the good people already in place. That is so important at any soccer club.

"There’s a real positivity here and there’s an ambition to continue to be successful. We’ve got a fantastic squad and now it’s about adding a bit more quality and energy to get it to the next level.”

He added: “Humility, honesty, and work ethic are the three things that I always focus on getting out of the clubs I have worked at.

"Ultimately, it’s about winning football matches and historically, I’ve managed to do that at the clubs I’ve been at. We want to win the regular season, win the Eastern Conference, and ultimately win the whole thing. That’s the ultimate objective."

The USL has no promotion or relegation. Rowdies finished second in the Eastern Conference this year before losing to Birmingham Legion in the play-off quarter-finals.