Jim Jefferies gives his first interview as DAFC Boss

"I wouldn't have taken this job if I didn't think we could survive in the SPL"

Veteran manager Jim Jefferies was unveiled as the new boss of Dunfermline Athletic at a Press Conference at the Dunfermline Academy of Sport on Wednesday. Jim has signed a fifteen month rolling contract with the club, meaning he will be in charge at East End Park next season regardless of what happens in the relegation battle.

Jim says, "I'm delighted that I've got the opportunity to manage this club and I would not have taken the job if I did not think we can survive in the SPL. Initially the Chairman and I discussed a contract for the last eight games of the season but as our conversations progressed I was offered a longer contract and after careful consideration, I was delighted to accept".

Jim Jefferies met with the players and coaching staff on Wednesday morning and will assume training of the first team squad on Thursday ahead of Saturday's home game against St Mirren at East End Park. Jim says, "We know it's going to be tough, but it's going to be tough for clubs above us as well and things can change very quickly. There are enough games and enough points but we've got to start now and Saturday's game is vital."

"I've looked at some of the previous games and I've spoken to the players today. I've told them they've been in positions where they could have won games and they've been in positions where they could have won points. I know we've had a big injury list, but every team has hard luck stories and that's not an excuse. Nobody can deny that they work hard, but if they can be more focussed and concentrate, then they will win games. Saturday will be a tough game but if we can get the win on Saturday it will give everybody - me, the players, the fans, everybody at the club -a boost and we will create chances and we will score goals and we will win matches."

You can hear Jim Jefferies press conference in full, and a special Dunfermline Media Centre show with exclusive interviews from both the new manager and Chairman John Yorkston. The show is FREE to all Dunfermline fans at www.dafc.welovesport.co.uk