Robertson in frame as Grant exits Pars

JOHN ROBERTSON and John Hughes last night emerged as frontrunners for the Dunfermline job after the Fifers parted company with manager Peter Grant. The 56-year-old former Scotland assistant coach (below) took over in May, but leaves with the Pars bottom of the division without a win in 12 league games following their 4-2 defeat at Arbroath on Saturday. Greg Shields and Steven Whittaker have been placed in charge on an interim basis, supported by sports director Thomas Meggle. A Dunfermline club statement read: ‘We would like to place on record our thanks to Peter for his efforts, hard work and professionalism during his time at East End Park. ‘A fresh, robust recruitment process to find a replacement for Peter to lead our club forward will start immediately.’ Inverness sporting director Robertson is keen on a return to frontline management and enjoys support within East End Park. Former Hibs and Falkirk manager Hughes and ex-Scotland boss Craig levein are also well known to the East End Park hierarchy, with the Fifers set to study applications before moving quickly through a shortlist. Montrose boss Stewart Petrie, a former Pars favourite, could also come into the reckoning. One of those preparing to throw his hat into the ring is former Rangers and Scotland striker Kenny Miller. Back in Scotland after a spell coaching in Australia, Miller told BBC Sportsound: ‘It’s one of those jobs you look at that level, Dunfermline is a big club. ‘It’s a good stadium, the fans are clearly passionate about their club and they want them to be doing better than they are.’