FORMER Pars boss Jim Jefferies is back in football after taking up a sporting director role with League Two Edinburgh City.

The 66-year-old has been out of the game since leaving his last managerial post with Athletic in December 2014 but he will now pass on experience gleaned from more than 30 years in the dugout to the SPFL newcomers.

He is now set to work with the Meadowbank club's manager, Gary Jardine, by taking a seat at boardroom level and said: "During my chats recently with the club I've been impressed with their ambition and plans going forward, and I look forward to helping them in areas which they feel they need my support.

"I hope my years of experience can help them and I look forward to the challenge."

An Edinburgh City statement said: "In addition to building on his extensive contacts north and south of the border, Jim will play a key role in working with Gary Jardine in all aspects of player recruitment, as well as acting as a sounding board for the management team."

Jefferies was appointed by the Pars in 2012 to replace the axed Jim McIntyre, but was unable to stave off relegation from the SPL.

Despite a strong start to the following season that saw them challenging for an instant return, the club's financial problems saw them plunge into administration and, ultimately, relegation after losing the Championship play-off final to Alloa.

They failed to bounce back instantly as, after trailing behind runaway champions Rangers, they again lost out in the play-offs, this time to Cowdenbeath.

A poor start to the 2014/15 campaign saw him leave his post to be replaced by coach John Potter but Jefferies said that managing Athletic was still "one of the best jobs I've enjoyed".

He had been due to return to East End as a hospitality guest for the Scottish Cup tie with Hamilton Academical but was unable to attend.