Dunfermline Athletic has parted ways with manager James McPake.
McPake, 40, was appointed in May 2022 and led the Pars into the second tier before finishing sixth last season.
But things haven't gone to plan this time around. This decision comes on the heels of consecutive 2-0 losses to Raith Rovers and Greenock Morton, both of whom are also struggling in the lower half of the table.
In a significant shake-up, assistant coach Dave Mackay has also parted ways with the Fife club, which currently finds itself in a precarious position, sitting second from the bottom in the Scottish Championship.
It's believed that recent performances has raised alarms about the potential threat of relegation and, as a result, a change had to be made.
John McLaughlan, the current coach of Dunfermline's under-18 and reserve teams, has been tasked with leading the squad in preparation for the upcoming match against Falkirk at East End Park on Friday, December 27.
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A Dunfermline statement released on Monday read: “Following a challenging first half of the 2024-25 season, the Board of Directors of Dunfermline Athletic have decided to relieve Manager James McPake and Assistant Manager Dave Mackay of their duties.
“The Board would like to thank James and Dave for their efforts whilst at KDM Group East End Park.
“The management duo made a great impact on arrival at the club, leading us to the League One title during a record-breaking season in 2022-23. However, this season has proven challenging, and the club board felt the need to make a change as we head into January.
“Current under-18 and reserve team coach John McLaughlan has been asked to prepare the team ahead of Friday’s visit of Falkirk in the Scottish Championship.
“Whilst this decision has been taken by the current board of directors, we have made the prospective investor in the club aware of this decision.
“Finally, we recognise this has been a challenging period for supporters and we would like to thank you for your continued support. We hope to see you at KDM Group East End Park on Friday night to help back the team in an important festive fixture.”
