June 15 (Reuters) - Leicester City ⁠have appointed Russell Martin as their new manager on ⁠a three-year contract, the League One club announced on ‌Monday, as they look to rebuild following their relegation to the third tier of English soccer.

The 40-year-old former Scotland international takes over immediately on a deal ​until 2029, tasked with stabilising a ⁠club that won the Premier ⁠League title just a decade ago but were relegated to League ⁠One ‌in April, a second consecutive relegation after being sent down from the Premier League the season before.

Martin ⁠becomes Leicester's fifth manager since June 2025, arriving with ​a reputation ‌for possession-based, progressive soccer developed during managerial spells at Milton ⁠Keynes Dons, ​Swansea City, Southampton and Scottish side Rangers F.C.

"I’m delighted to be here and excited to begin working with the players and staff," Martin ⁠said in a statement. "This is a ​club with great history, strong support and high expectations... My immediate focus is on the team: building strong relationships, setting clear standards ⁠and creating performances that Leicester City supporters can connect with."

Leicester Chief Football Officer Jon Rudkin said Martin's appointment followed a thorough process to find a manager with a distinct tactical philosophy.

"He is ​a strong leader, a clear decision-maker and ⁠someone with a defined way of working," Rudkin said. "He understands ​the responsibility that comes with leading the ‌team and he is well placed ​to help us move forward with purpose and direction."

(Reporting by Tommy Lund in Gdansk; editing by Clare Fallon)