Dundee have sacked manager James McPake as they look to avoid a return to the Championship at the first time of asking.
The Dens Park side confirmed McPake had been “released” from his role as manager in a statement released on the club website this afternoon.
Having played for the club, McPake worked his way up through the coaching team before taking the reins as manager and guiding them to promotion last season.
Dundee’s statement praised his role in their promotion as they looked at “preserving James’ legacy” at the club, saying:
“James joined Dundee FC as a player in May 2014 and since that time has faithfully served the club as Captain, Under 18s Manager, First Team Caretaker Manager, and First Team Manager.
“During the 2020-21 season, James led the team to promotion to the Scottish Premiership after just two seasons in the Championship. This resulted in him being named Scottish Championship Manager of the Year 2021.
“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.”
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