John Hartson has confirmed that he has applied for the Livingston managerial post.

The former Celtic striker is in the frame for the post vacated by David Hopkin last week. The 47-year-old rejected a contract extension after leading Livingston to back-to-back promotions.

Hartson worked part-time last season with Livingston doing some coaching work and has confirmed that he is keen to take the managerial role on a permanent basis. It is believed that there are several candidates who are being considered for the post with the next 48 hours expected to result in notification of an interview process.

Read more: John Hartson: No panic buying needed at Celtic - but Hoops need three or four new players

"I have declared an interest in the job," said Hartson. "It all moved pretty quickly, to be honest.

"David decided that he did not wish to carry on at Livingston and I was asked if I would consider the job.

"I spoke to one or two people that I am still connected with in football and my own gut feeling was that I should go for it.

Read more: John Hartson: Dedryck Boyata will come back to Celtic a better player for World Cup experience​

"I don't want to say too much on the subject. But I have my coaching badges and I have been an assistant manager already so this could be another step.

"I have declared an interest. I obviously know the players from doing some coaching last season with them and we will see what happens next."