Dunfermline Athletic appoint James McPake as new boss following League One relegation

Dunfermline Athletic have appointed former Dundee manager James McPake as their new boss on a two-year deal.

The Pars parted company with John Hughes following relegation to cinch League One at the hands of Queen’s Park earlier this months.

McPake, sacked by the Dens Park outfit in February after guiding them to the Premiership, said he was aiming to take the Fifers back into the second tier at the first attempt.

The 37-year-old added: “I’m delighted to have been appointed manager at such a prestigious club within Scottish football.

“It’s been a challenging year for the club but I am excited and optimistic about how we can build the club up and get it moving in the right direction from League One.

“Over the years, on the pitch and in the opposition dugout, I’ve experienced the strong backing from the stands.

“The supporters are going to play a key role in this rebuild and it’s vital that we are all pulling in the same direction for the start of the season.”

Meanwhile, forward Dominic Thomas has announced he is leaving East End Park at the end of his contract.

The 26-year-old played 31 times and scored five goals last season, but follows Hughes and assistant boss Steven Whittaker out the door.