James McPake sacked by Dundee as regretful Dens Park chiefs act to 'preserve his legacy' and fight relegation

McPake first joined the club as a player in 2014 before being named boss in 2019 and secured promotion in last season's play-offs.

Dundee have sacked manager James McPake as the club fight relegation from the Scottish Premiership.

The 37-year-old has been dismissed by the Dens Park side despite a recent upturn in results that saw them pull off a shock win at Hearts last week before progressing to the quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup on Monday night against Peterhead.

Ultimately, though, the Dark Blues still face the risk of relegation in their first season back in the top flight after McPake guided them to the Premiership through last season's play-offs.

And that was reflected in a regretful message confirming his departure on Wednesday afternoon after nearly eight years of service, having first joined as a player in 2014.

A club statement read: " Dundee Football Club has taken the decision to release James McPake from the duties of his position of Manager.

"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."