NEW HIBERNIAN manager Colin Calderwood believes the fresh nature of his new role can benefit both himself and the club.

Stranraer-born Calderwood won 36 caps for Scotland and represented the nation at Euro 96 and the 1998 World Cup, but the Easter Road post is his first football job in his home country.

‘‘I always wanted another go at being a manager,’’ said Calderwood last night, who has signed a three-year contract.

‘‘Being a coach and assistant to Chris was a wonderful opportunity and we had a super year last year, but I always had an eye on being the number one and setting my own agenda.

‘‘It’s top-level football. Although my experience has given me a lot of games, I have developed as I did as a player, starting in the lower leagues and coming through.

That experience will be invaluable.

‘‘It’s tremendously fresh, I’m really looking forward to it. The newness will obviously bring a little bit of the unknown but with that I don’t have a jaundiced opinion of anyone.

‘‘I’ve done all the leagues in England - not so long in the Premier League as we have only just started the season - but this is something that has really whetted my appetite.’’ Calderwood was in the frame the last time Hibs recruited a new manager, less than 18 months ago, but chairman Rod Petrie elected to appoint John Hughes.

Hughes led the club into Europe but a run of one win in 10 games this season saw him part company with the club two weeks ago.

The likes of Billy Stark, Michael O’Neill, Pat Fenlon and Steve Clarke had been linked with the post but Hibs approached Calderwood on Friday and a deal was quickly wrapped up.