Ashcroft holds no grudges as Paton takes armband

Pars travel to face Queen of the South keen to build on solid start to season

Dunfermline defender Lee Ashcroft is adamant there are no hard feelings between himself and Paul Paton after he was replaced as club captain at East End Park.

Pars boss Stevie Crawford made the decision to hand Paton the armband following his arrival from fierce rivals Falkirk over the summer, believing his calming influence and experience would be vital in the coming campaign.

Ashcroft, the previous incumbent in the role, admits that news was ‘unexpected’ but has vowed to continue playing a captain’s role behind the scenes as Paton’s deputy.

He has hailed the impact the 32-yearold has made at Dunfermline already, while the duo even share a car to training every morning. Needless to say, then, the notion of ‘grudges’ being held is an outlandish one.

“At the time, losing the captaincy was a bit unexpected but I took it on the chin,” said Ashcroft.

“But I get on great with Pates, we travel in together and I understand why the gaffer has done it. He has done it for me personally and for the club.

“Pates has been about, he is an experienced boy who knows the ins and outs.

“He has won this league with Partick as well. He was good experience to bring in and I cannot speak highly enough of what he has done. The boys respect him.

“It has been good, no grudges were held and we have just moved on.”

This afternoon will see Ashcroft cross swords with the man who installed him as Dunfermline captain in the first place, Allan Johnston.

The current Queen of the South boss, who was dismissed by the Pars in January, also managed him at Killie – and Ashcroft revealed that he still calls Johnston ‘gaffer’ when their paths cross, such has been the influence on his career.

“He played a big part in my career. I have nothing but nice things to say about him, he has always looked after me and done well for me.”

Dunfermline travel to Dumfries seeking to build on their opening day 2-2 draw against Dundee, which followed a fine Betfred Cup group phase campaign.

Queen of the South manager Allan Johnston has been reunited with Faissal El Bakhtaoui after signing the striker on a one-year deal.

The French-Moroccan had been a free agent after three years at Dundee.

Picture: Lee Ashcroft in action against Ross County during his time as skipper of the Pars.