Failed approach for Jefferies spelled the end of McCann at Dundee

BeSoccer 6 years ago 87
There are vacancies at Dens park after a spree of sackings within the coaching staff. DUNDEEFC

A failed approach for Jim Jefferies to step into the assistant manager berth at Dundee spelled the end for head coach Neil McCann, who was sacked by the club just days later.

It has been revealed that Dundee's failure to lure Jim Jefferies to the club as assistant manager, was the catalyst for the Scottish club to part ways with manager Neil McCann a mere three days later. 

Jefferies admitted to 'BBC Scotland' that he was indeed approached for the role, but he turned down Dundee's offer as he felt he could not do the role justice under his current circumstances. 

The 67 year old is currently fulfilling the role of sporting director for Scottish League two side Edinburgh City.

In his talk with  'BBC Scotland' Jefferies said: ""I spoke with both John and Neil on a number of occasions over the weekend and at another time I would have been delighted to help out."

Jefferies continued: "Neil was very keen to have me on board and, having worked with him previously at Dunfermline, where he worked part time as a coach, and at Hearts, it was a partnership that hopefully would have worked and led Dundee away from the current relegation situation they are in." 

Just days after this role refusal, it was announced that Dundee had parted company with head coach Neil McCann, as well as his original assistant manager Graham Gartland. 

Jefferies also addressed this news in his interview with 'BBC Scotland', saying: "I'm sad Neil has lost his job but sure he will bounce back and learn from the experience he gained in his time at Dens Park. I would like to wish both Neil McCann and John Nelms the best of luck in the future."

Dundee have already begun to draw up a shortlist of names for the vacant managerial role, with the team sitting bottom of the league table.  Dundee travel to face promotion chasers Livingston on Saturday afternoon. 

Mentioned in the news story