Ex-dundee managers in double act

Former Dundee manager Jim Duffy has secured the services of his skipper at Dens Park, Barry Smith, as his number two for an extended period after Smith agreed a new deal to remain at Dumbarton.

Duffy brought in Smith, who also had a stint as the manager of the Dark Blues, as well as being the boss of Aldershot, East Fife, Raith Rovers and Brechin City in January when Craig Macpherson took on a role within the Youth Academy at Rangers.

Dundee-based Smith had discussed leaving the post at the end of last season. However, after joining in with pre-season training, the 46-year-old has now agreed terms.

Duffy said: “Barry was only our assistant manager for a few weeks last season but the impression he made was noticeable.

“He is an extremely knowledgeable coach and a top professional and we are delighted he has decided to stay with us for the season ahead.”

“He is a person who I can trust to carry out a top job.”

Duffy and Smith first teamed up at Dens in 1995 and were reunited when the former returned to the Dark Blues for a second stint as boss seven years later.

Smith himself managed the Dee for three years until resigning in 2013 and had a short spell working with Jim Weir at Forfar before heading west to the Sons earlier in the year.