Ayr United have appointed John Rankin as their interim manager for the rest of the season. The 42-year-old former Hamilton Academical boss replaces Scott Brown, who left Somerset Park by mutual consent on Monday. Ayr are eighth in the Scottish Championship, seven points above the relegation play-off place and eight points above bottom. The Honest Men host Partick Thistle, Dunfermline Athletic and Arbroath in their next three games then finish April with visits to second-bottom Ross County and bottom side Airdrieonians. John Rankin will take training today and will be assisted by Jamie Murphy, Tommy Tait and Dave Timmins. Former Scotland winger Murphy, 36, is also part of the playing squad. Ayr United's new interim manager has a tough task ahead of him as the Honest Men look to climb the Scottish Championship table.