Dundee sack boss James McPake as they aim to ‘preserve his legacy and Premiership status’
DUNDEE have sacked boss James McPake.
The Dark Blues sit a point ahead of bottom placed St Johnstone in the Premiership, having beaten Hearts at Tynecastle last time out.
But they did overcome Peterhead on Monday night to reach the Scottish Cup quarter final stage.
The board say they are looking to 'preserve his legacy' while also maintaining their Premiership status by bringing in someone with more experience.
McPake was voted the Championship manager of the year having guided Dundee to promotion via the play offs.
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.
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"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.
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"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."
Skipper Charlie Adam took to social media after the news broke, tweeting: "Sad to see the manager leave the club today, a good man who will always be remembered at Dundee.
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"I want to thank him for all he’s done on and off the pitch for me. I wish him well, I’m sure it won’t be long until he’s back in work."
McPake had recently been linked with the vacant Hibs job before the club opted for Shaun Maloney.
Asked about that link just before Christmas, McPake bluntly replied: "My full focus is on Dundee.”
There is no indication yet as to who will take the club on an interim basis.
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