The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Defender respects United decision to move him on
Mark Durnan insists he accepts and understands Dundee United manager Csaba Laszlo’s decision to let him go, writes Ian Roache.
Durnan, who has joined Championship rivals Dunfermline on a one-year deal, was one of the many players who walked through the Tannadice exit door last month following the Tangerines’ failure to win promotion.
He has now opened a new career chapter at East End Park and isn’t dwelling on his departure from United.
Durnan said: “Dundee United expressed that they were going to have a fresh start. The manager there wants to bring in his own players and I totally respect that.
“The best thing for me, personally, was to get away and have a fresh start at a new club and a new adventure.
“I am just delighted to finally sign for Dunfermline and I cannot wait to get playing.”
The move to East End Park reunites the former Queen of the South defender with ex-doonhamers management duo Allan Johnston and Sandy Clark.
Having won the Second Division title and Challenge Cup during his spell under Johnston and Clark at Queens, Durnan admits it was an easy decision to opt for the Pars as his next club.
He said: “It is good to be here. The manager spoke to me after both United and Dunfermline had finished their seasons and he showed interest in bringing me to the club.
“I worked with the manager previously at Queen of the South and I know what him and Sandy are all about. Once we had talks I just wanted to get the deal done.”
Durnan, of course, helped United end Dunfermline’s promotion hopes in last month’s play-off quarter-final clash.
However, having himself then suffered the bitter disappointment of defeat to Livingston in the semi-final, the centre-half is desperate to aid his new club in their quest for a return to the Premiership.
He added: “At the start of last season United, Dunfermline, St Mirren and Livingston were all up there.
“At one stage, Dunfermline were probably St Mirren’s closest rivals so I think we just need to build on that and be more consistent.
“We need to try to progress. “Dunfermline had the players but I think next season there has to be the same or better. We have to be looking to get promotion.
Former PSG defender Jean-yves M’voto has left Dunfermline.
The 29-year-old joined the Pars last summer after a season with Raith Rovers and made 21 appearances.