First signing of Potter era

06/01/15: Jim Paterson has today signed for Dunfermline Athletic.

Jim Paterson will be a good addition to the Dunfermline Athletic squad says the manager.

Forfar Athletic left back Jim Paterson has joined Dunfermline Athletic. The 35 year old previously played for Dundee United and Motherwell, making over 100 appearances for both. He has experience of playing in England with Plymouth and Bristol Rovers and in Ireland with Shamrock Rovers.

Out of contract at Bristol Rovers, Jim returned to Scotland in September 2014 and was given a four month contract by Dick Campbell. He started eleven games and was a regular in Forfar's starting eleven.

He can play in defence and midfield but the player who was capped nine times for Scotland at Under 21 level can also coach. This is a major attraction to John Potter who views that as a significant bonus. The Pars gaffer explained:-

"I told him that I wanted him to be a player, to be in the changing room as a player and maybe just to help out with warm ups and the odd coaching session for himself more than the players. I know he is keen on getting involved like that so I made him an offer with that opportunity."

John Potter and Jim Paterson's paths have crossed several times principally because they are of the same age. A mutual friendship with Paul Gallacher has also brought them together. John continued:-

"We spent a week down at Largs a few years ago doing our A Licence together, we have kept in touch every now and then. I knew that he was interested in that side of it and keen to get back full time. I thought that he can add a bit of experience. His is quite disciplined and vocal - the right kind of player for us."

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