Gordon Brown will play a “big part” under Jim Murphy’s Scottish Labour leadership if the MP’s candidacy is successful.
Mr Murphy revealed he has spoken to the former Prime Minister “at length” about Mr Brown taking a prominent role should his leadership bid result in victory.
Any link up is likely to be in a campaigning basis, with the Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath representative seen as a figure who could bring the left of the party on board with the Blairite politician.
Mr Murphy told The Courier: “I envision Gordon Brown having a big part to play.
“I spoke to him at length yesterday and I would like Gordon to have a big role in our election campaign.
“He was so formidable during the referendum campaign and I want him to use his energy and passion again for Scottish Labour.
“It will be for geeing up the troops but also for convincing voters.
“Labour has got to come together as a team because teams win whereas divided groups lose.”
Mr Murphy addressed a Labour group meeting in Dunfermline on Thursday evening as he attempts to convince party members he is the person to lead the party, amid competition from Neil Findlay and Sarah Boyack.
The East Renfrewshire representative said he set up base in Edinburgh so he can be close to Holyrood immediately after being elected leader.
He also dropped a strong hint both his leadership rivals would be offered senior jobs were he to win, saying: “No matter who wins, they will want to involve the other two in important roles.”
Leadership favourite Mr Murphy pledged to “lead an assault on low pay” as union support for Mr Findlay increased.
He also praised the spirit of Fifers and pledged to find ways of bringing industries, and “wealth creation”, back to the region to help fund the NHS through working people’s taxes.
“I want to bottle that ‘can do-ism’ you have in Fife and take it out across the country,” he added.