St Mirren boss Jim Goodwin has joined Aberdeen as their new manager.

The 40-year-old Irishman has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal and will take charge for the first time when the Dons face Motherwell in the cinch Premiership on Saturday.

Goodwin, who replaced the sacked Stephen Glass, has more than 200 games under his belt and described his appointment as “a dream come true”.

He said: “I am hugely honoured to have been offered the role of manager at this great football club.

“I would like to thank the board for putting their trust in me and I will do all I can going forward to repay the faith they have shown in me.

“The opportunity to work at one of the biggest clubs in the country is a dream come true, and I can’t wait to get started.”

St Mirren Chief Executive Tony Fitzpatrick said: "I would like to place on record my thanks to Jim Goodwin for all he has done in his time at St Mirren.

"Jim raised the bar during his time at the club – reaching both the semi-finals of the League and Scottish Cups last season as well as achieving our highest top-flight finish in over 30 years.

"Jim leaves us challenging for a top six position and in the quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup.

"I know leaving St Mirren was a difficult decision for Jim and while we are disappointed to lose him, Aberdeen met a release clause within his contract and we respect his decision to move on.

"Jim has been a fantastic ambassador for our club and we wish him every success for the future."

A statement on Aberdeen's official website said: “Aberdeen FC this morning confirms Jim Goodwin as its new manager.

“The 40-year-old Irishman joins the Dons on a two-and-a-half-year contract and will take charge of the team for its cinch Premiership match against Motherwell at Fir Park today.”