Dunfermline Athletic

Dunfermline had a strong start to last season, but title hopes were dashed by the turn of the year. Allan Johnston was fired and fans-favourite Steven Crawford was handed the task of taking them to the play-offs. He failed too during an ugly end to the season with just one point from eight matches. Crawford has used his contacts from around the UK to assemble a host of new signings. However, few of them are household names in Scotland apart from Paul Paton. Around 15 players with a wealth of experience have departed as the Pars begin a new era with Crawford’s choice of players. Although the Pars will always be well supported, it’s difficult to view them as promotion candidates. They lacked goals last season and are hoping Kevin Nisbet can rectify that failing with support from other new signings Ryan Dow and Gabriel McGill. At least Dunfermline should have a solid defence with Lee Ashcroft and Danny Devine remaining at East End Park. They also have good competition for the defensive roles. With a new set of players having little time to gel, it seems the Pars could be in for a tough start. A lot rests on Kevin Nisbet reproducing his scoring form for Raith Rovers at a higher level. Despite the poor end to last season Crawford remains in place, but the pressure is on him from the start.