Bell takes the call

"There seems to be something about Dunfermline that jumps out as a Premierleague club.

Steven Bell has revealed that he was in talks with St Johnstone until he discovered that Dunfermline were interested in employing him when his contract expired at the end of the 2007-08 season.

"I got a phone call from Jim just before we (Stirling Albion) played Celtic in the Cup, he just said that he wanted to bring me here."

Ever since he played for Allan Moore's side against Dunfermline in the third match of last season Steven has had a good feeling about the stadium:-

"I love playing here plus I know Jim really well from my time at United.  He was really good with me up there and helped my game a lot.  The fans as well - there seems to be something about Dunfermline that jumps out as a Premierleague club.

"Everybody I spoke to - my family and my friends all said Dunfermline should be in the Premierleague.St Johnstone have not been in the Premierleague as recent as Dunfermline and I just think Dunfermline have a better chance to bounce back.That is what did it for me."

Steven was three seasons with Stirling after a disappointing time with Queen of the South where lack of experience during a relegation battle restricted his involvement:-

"It never worked out there but I am just trying to get back up the ladder.  Allan Moore was brilliant for me and now Jim has given me the chance to play here.  Hopefully I will be a regular next season."

Jim McIntyre is just as pleased to be re-united with Steven, he added:-

"Steven caused us numerous problems last season when he was playing for Stirling Albion and he'll add strength and goals to our midfield."

The 23 year old shared a room with other new signing Graeme Holmes while at Dundee United so he is pleased that I already know someone at the club.  Paul Gallacher was also at Tannadice with Steven.

He expects to be a lot fitter with full time training and expects to score even more goals from midfield:-

"No disrespect to Stirling but I will have better players roundabout me providing better chances to score goals."

With the move back to full time football with Athletic Steven will be giving up his apprentice electrician's job and he won't miss the 6.00am rise to work all day, train at night and not get home until 10.00pm.

"I know what it is like to be part time and don't want to go back to that.I am looking forward to coming here."