JOHN Brownlie, the former Hibernian and Scotland full back, is the new

manager of second-division Meadowbank Thistle. Brownlie, who takes over

from Donald Park who resigned earlier this month, has been given a

two-year contract.

Announcing the appointment, Meadowbank secretary Bill Hunter said:

''We're quite elated to have John on board. The talks we had were

straightforward and there were absolutely no problems. We're quite sure

John will do a good job for this club.''

Brownlie, formerly manager of Cowdenbeath, was assistant to Alex Smith

at Clyde before deciding to join Meadowbank. The club currently lie

fourth in the second division -- seven points behind leaders Stranraer.