| At least one SPL club and several in England — including a First Division outfit — have expressed interest in obtaining his services, but, having pledged his future to the Dark Blues both publicly and privately, the Dens boss has given a flat “no” to all approaches so far.
And, while he refused to rule out moving on if a much bigger job became available, Jim is more than happy at the prospect of a long-term future in the City of Discovery.
He has admitted his affection for a club he’s now been associated with for 20 years has only grown during the troubled times of financial crisis and administration.
“Part of the reason I’ve signed is definitely that the supporters here have proved this is a club worth saving. Since administration, I’ve been to a lot of fund-raising events and the fans have repeatedly shown that,” he said today. “It has also meant a lot to me that they have shown appreciation for mine and the team’s efforts in what was a very difficult season.
“In football management, you almost become immune to criticism because you get so much of it and, equally, you get embarrassed by praise because it’s rare. I felt any role I played in helping was minimal, but it was nice to know people appreciated it.
“When I spoke to fans and players, I said I was happy to be here and, unless an unbelievable offer came up, I was not planning to move. I am also signing to show that they were not just words, it was what I really meant.
“Recently, there have been a couple of times when there’s been unnecessary speculation about my position and, hopefully, in doing this that can be removed.”
While grateful for the backing of the fans, he believes it should only continue if there is success on the park. Despite seeing his squad decimated and budget slashed over the last eight months, he remains convinced his side can be competitive in the SPL.
“The fans can no longer expect the same depth of quality that we had previously, but that does not mean there cannot be quality out on the park,” he added. “We’ve had to battle hard since administration and we will have to continue to battle hard for a long time to come, but, if we do, I believe we can do well.
“There are going to be four new managers at Premierleague clubs next season and a lot of new players, so it could be a very exciting league — it’s just a shame that has been overshadowed by the mess they’ve got themselves into. Once the football gets started, it is going to be very interesting and the chance is there for everyone to do well.”
Most of all, Jim has decided to remain where he is because he enjoys his job and working in Scotland’s top flight.
“There can only be 12 Premierleague managers and I do not lose sight of the fact that I am lucky to be one of them and I have a job I enjoy at a good club. A lot that has happened over the last year has not been enjoyable, but that does not change the fact this is a good club to manage. We now have a business plan in place and, while there will still be tough times ahead, I know it can work.” |
