Tam McDonald reappointed as Lanark United boss

Nov 12 2009 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

LANARK United were this week involved in their THIRD managerial switch of the season when Duncan Sinclair was sacked on Sunday and Tam McDonald re-appointed boss.

Duncan’s departure was already decided before Lanark secured a passport into the Emirates Scottish Cup third round with a 5-3 penalties win over Glasgow Perthshire.

McDonald’s first opponents on Saturday will be Auchinleck Talbot, a club where he won an impressive array of medals as player, coach and manager.

Lanark match secretary Tam Anderson explained the move.

He said: “There was no argument or outburst. We felt the team were under-performing, there were a few indifferent results and no sign of progress, so we felt we had to dispense with his Duncan Sinclair’s services.

“There had been a few critical comments from committee members and there was a feeling of unrest about the club.

“We’ve had poor attendance at training, which probably contributed to a general feeling of apathy about the place.

“Nevertheless, I would like to thank Duncan for his efforts and I’m sorry that things just weren’t working out for him.”

Lanark moved quickly to fill the void by approaching Tam McDonald, and were met with a ready acceptance.

Anderson said: “We knew of his quality, and his availability, so we decided to invite him back.

“Tam left in October 2007 when Bellshill were in the Super Premier League but now we’re in what I reckon is the top league in Scottish junior football.

“Tam will bring his backroom team of John Gibson and Jack Steel with him.”

McDonald took his first look at the current squad at Glasgow Green on Monday night in a pre-arranged friendly with Larkhall Thistle.

The Jags won the match 1-0, courtesy of a Grant Cuthill goal.

The new boss will make his Moor Park debut against Auchinleck, who are currently lying fifth with five wins and one draw from their six league starts.

McDonald is just delighted to be back at the helm.

He said: “It was a surprise call at the weekend but I’m pleased to be back at a Super League club.

“I had a few offers from lower league clubs but I didn’t feel that was right.

“Lanark are in a better position than when I took over the last time and I’m looking forward to my first game – especially as it’s against my former club.”