SAM Collins has been confirmed as York City’s new permanent manager.

The Minstermen have moved to install Collins as the club’s full-time successor to Martin Gray following seven weeks in temporary charge, during which time he has overseen four victories, three draws and one defeat.

City have spoken to other “high-quality” interested candidates during the last ten days but have decided to promote the former youth-team coach, who has also been caretaker boss of Hartlepool three times in the past.

Collins, 41, has been at the Bootham Crescent helm since mid-August following Gray’s dismissal five games into the National League North season.

During that period, he has won four home matches out of five, while drawing all three of his fixtures on the road.

The victories at Bootham Crescent have come against Blyth Spartans (2-0) and Guiseley (4-2), while part-timers Ashton Athletic (5-0) and St Ives Town (3-0) have been seen off in the FA Cup.

A 3-0 reverse to Kidderminster has proven the biggest disappointment under Collins, whose team have also shared the spoils at Brackley (0-0), Hereford (1-1) and Nuneaton (2-2) ahead of this weekend’s trip to Southport.

Outlining the reasons for Collins’ appointment, a statement from City’s board of directors read: "We are delighted to appoint Sam Collins as first team manager of York City Football Club. Over the past few weeks, Sam has displayed the ability to take the club forward and fully warrants the opportunity.

"During his eight games in charge, the first team has won four games and drawn three and progressed in the FA Cup. This important decision was reached after conducting a lengthy interview process.

“There has been significant interest in our vacancy and the board has interviewed some high-quality candidates. Sam Collins has impressed with his organisational skills and work-ethic, his tactical flexibility, and his ability to implement an attractive style of play.

“He has also shown a willingness to promote youth and has galvanised the club's playing staff. We firmly believe that Sam has all the necessary attributes to develop into a top young manager and the board will support his efforts in every way possible as he strives to lead the club to success this season."

Former Middlesbrough defender Stuart Parnaby, who has been acting as Collins’ assistant during his temporary tenure, has also been unveiled as the full-time number two.