DUNFERMLINE have revealed their search for a new manager is ‘well under way’ following the resignation of John Hughes.
The former Hibernian and Inverness Caley Thistle boss has stepped aside in the wake of relegation to League One, which saw him targeted by angry supporters.
The 57-year-old took the reins at East End Park in November, with the team winless and rock bottom of the Championship, but was unable to prevent the Pars from dropping to the third-tier.
After steering them to ninth in the table, the Fifers suffered an agonising play-off semi-final defeat to Queen’s Park, five years on from Hughes’ relegation with Raith Rovers, also via the play-offs.
Hughes intimated immediately after the last-gasp loss to Queen’s Park that he was keen to be given the chance to make amends with a promotion push next season.
However, as the club conducts reviews into what went wrong this term, the former Falkirk, Hibs and Celtic defender has decided to stand down.
With coach Steven Whittaker having also left the club to join Scott Brown at Fleetwood Town, Dunfermline now have the opportunity to start afresh.
Interviews are expected ‘shortly’ as the Pars seek a new man capable of leading the club back to the Championship.
Chief executive and chairman David Cook said: “Following the disappointing end to the season, we updated supporters on certain off-field changes and footballing reviews happening at the club.
“Over the past week, we have seen Steven Whittaker and John Hughes both leave the club.
“Our search for a new manager is well underway and we will commence interviews with preferred candidates shortly.
“Our aim is to target a first-team coaching staff with fresh energy, drive and enthusiasm to help take the club forward in League One.
“We know supporters are eager for information around the first-team and we understand this. As soon as we are able to update supporters further, we shall. Thanks for your patience at this moment.”
Dunfermline failed to register a single league victory under Grant but Hughes won six and drew eight of his 24 Championship games in charge, only for Efe Ambrose’s red card to prove costly in the play-offs.
A statement read: “Dunfermline Athletic Football Club would like to advise that first-team manager John Hughes has intimated to the DAFC board his wish to stand down from his position.
“John joined our club in late 2021, in very difficult circumstances and the DAFC board would like to thank him for his hard work and endeavours over the last few months, and wish him and his family every success in the future.”
