Former Motherwell manager Mark McGhee could make a surprise return to Scottish football after being linked with the vacacant manager's job at Dundee.
The Premiership side sacked James McPake yesterday with the Dark Blues just a point off the bottom of the table. It brought to an end a near three-year spell at Dens Park and the search for a successor is now well underway.
Ex-Hibs boss Jack Ross and Kelty Hearts gaffer Kevin Thomson were among the early favourites, but betting was suspended on McGhee yesterday amid a flurry of backing.
McGhee, who was infamously caught on video having a foul-mouthed pop at a fan after being sent off during a 7-2 defeat for Motherwell at Aberdeen in 2017, has had two spells at Fir Park, as well as being in charge of the Dons themselves between 2009-10.
The 64-year-old also served on the Scotland coaching setup during Gordon Strachan's reign.
And it is that connection that could help secure his return to Scottish football, with Strachan currently the technical director at Dundee.
It is understood McGhee could be appointed on a deal until the end of the season as Dundee bid to preserve their Premiership status, following last season's promotion from the Championship.
Announcing the decision to sack McPake, a statement from Dundee read: “Dundee Football Club has taken the decision to release James McPake from the duties of his position of manager.
“It is clear that without James’ leadership the club would still be in the Championship, and for that reason, the decision to release him was not arrived at easily.
“However, at this time the club must look to a manager with additional experience with the aim of preserving James’ legacy and our place in the Premiership.
“It is without a doubt that someone who has achieved so much in such a short amount of time will go on to continue achieving remarkable things, and for this James has our unequivocal support and endorsement.
“We are proud to have given James his first steps in management and beyond proud of his accomplishments. He is, and will always remain, a valued and loved member of the Dundee FC family.”
Should McGhee be appointed, one of his first fixtures will be a trip to Motherwell on March 5.
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