Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
McPake lifts lid on Dunfermline summer transfer strategy
JAMES McPake has said he is “working actively” to fill the obvious gaps in his Dunfermline Athletic squad ahead of the new season.
The manager earlier this week welcomed Dave Mackay to the club as his assistant, who he worked alongside in management and as a player – at Dundee and Livingston respectively.
Alan Main had earlier been brought in as the goalkeeping coach and so far defender Kyle Benedictus and midfielder Chris Hamilton are the only players to be added.
Both performed well during their 45 minutes in a bounce match versus Hill o Beath earlier this week but McPake knows more players are required.
That’s in terms of both strength and depth, according to McPake, needed for a “tough” League One campaign ahead.
Speaking ahead of today’s preseason friendly away to Cove Rangers, he said: “It’s non-stop, but with some clubs only starting back on Thursday, it has been slower than we would have liked.
“There are certain areas, everyone will know. We have four strikers, for example, that can play No 9.
“But in certain areas we don’t have players, so we’re actively working to bring those players in.”
McPake, however, remains “excited” about who he already has to work with.
They have responded positively, despite the gruelling fitness schedule.
It means they are “tired going into games”.
He added: “There’s nothing wrong with that.
“We’re pushing them really hard... they’re not shy of hard work.”
Graham Dorrans is the only fitness doubt – his ankle injury is nothing serious but is being monitored.
Otherwise there are a few pre-season niggles, normal for this time of the off-season.
McPake said that while the recent behind-closeddoors fixture was about fitness, today’s match will be a chance for him to introduce more of the tactical side.
To do so he will be aided by Mackay, who made the move from Dens Park earlier in the week.
“(Mackay) has a desire in him to make players better,” said McPake.
“Both of us share that vision, particularly with young players.”