Peter Hartley’s primary goal is to “bridge the gap between the under 18s and the first team” at St Mirren as he links up with Stephen Robinson once more.

The former Motherwell captain has been appointed as the Buddies new head of first-team transition and loan pathways after previous incumbent Brian Kerr recently stepped up to become assistant manager.

Hartley served under Robinson in Lanarkshire, and reunites with his old boss after calling time on his playing career in the summer.

“Peter was my captain at Motherwell and I stayed in touch with him in terms of his progression as a coach,” Robinson told St Mirren’s website.

“We spoke to numerous people. We wanted somebody that had coaching experience but was also still aligned with the dressing room. We also wanted someone that had worked in a development role and had the relevant qualifications, which Peter certainly does.

“He will work every day with the first team and the biggest thing is to bridge the gap between the under 18s and the first team.

“He’ll manage the loan players, to ensure all the aspects that we believe will develop those players for now and further down the line. It’s a big role for the club and important we’ve got the right person.”

On his appointment, the former Hartlepool centre-back said: “The manager has really high standards but I knew that coming in.

“I know exactly what he is about and with me being a young coach, making the transition from playing, I don’t think there is a better person to learn from.”