Dunfermline have sacked manager James McPake in a bid to preserve their Championship status.
Following defeat to Greenock Morton at the weekend, off the back of a derby loss to Raith Rovers, the Pars sit ninth in the table.
While they are a comfortable nine points ahead of bottom side Airdrie, all of the teams above them have a game in hand.
Club chiefs felt a change was required ahead of a big push during the second part of the season.
McPake helped Dunfermline to the League One title in 2022/23 and then a sixth-placed Championship finish last season.
It means both Fife rivals will be looking for a manager at the same time after Neill Collins left Raith Rovers to take up the post at USL Championship side Sacramanto Republic.
We’ve already looked at some candidates to be next Raith manager.
Pars released a statement today, which reads: “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.”
Now, Not the Old Firm takes a look at some of the runners and riders for Dunfermline.
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Ian Murray
Would be controversial after being sacked by Raith earlier this season. But his exit clearly left a bitter taste in the mouth for Murray and reinvigorating their rivals may appeal.
Charlie Adam
Out of work after being sacked by Fleetwood, Adam may seek an opportunity to get back in up in Scotland.
Kevin Thomson
Constantly linked with jobs but still looking to get back in after winning the League Two title for Kelty Hearts before resigning.
Steven Naismith
Stock is low after being sacked by Hearts and may need to rebuild himself in the Championship.
Barry Robson
Same story to Naismith after a similar outcome at Aberdeen
Lee Bullen
Bullen is a former Dunfermline hero as a player and had an initial impact as Ayr United boss before falling away.
Gary Naysmith
Naysmith has done a superb job at Stenhousemuir and could lead them to back-to-back titles and promotions as they challenge in League One after League Two success.
Stewart Petrie
Another former Pars player who could a contender. Long-serving boss of Montrose where he has often had them punching above their weight.
Michael Tidser
Doing a stellar job along the road at Kelty Hearts as player-boss. Inexperience could count against him.
Billy Davies
Davies told Not the Old Firm in an exclusive chat he is ready to get back in. Has a strong track record in England but has been out of work for some time.