Dundee

Dundee dropped out of top-flight football again without much surprise or fuss. The appointment of Jim McIntyre failed to deliver the impact Dundee hoped for and they finished bottom of the table. Dundee have now taken a big risk in giving 35-year-old James McPake his first serious role in football management. Gordon Strachan has surprisingly taken the roll of Director of Football. There has been a mass clear out at Dundee following relegation, but few if any will be truly missed. With obvious financial restrictions, Dundee have been cautious with their signings. Jordan Forster won the Championship with Hibs and anchors the defence. Shaun Byrne and Josh Todd also bring some industry to their midfield. Although Dundee will make noises about an immediate return to the Premier League it seems more like a season of recovery and consolidation. While Dundee are one of the bigger teams in the Championship, they will hold little fear for most of their rivals and be viewed as vulnerable. Dundee have experience in most areas, but not much cover for them. A group of loan signings seems probable as the season begins. The inexperience of James McPake as a manager is an obvious weakness. Dundee fans expect top-flight football and the pressure will be on them from the first minute of the season.