Football, East Fife v Arbroath. East Fife win the Third Division. Two goal hero Paul McManus kisses the 3rd Division Trophy.
East Fife striker Paul McManus will not return to Bayview next season after exercising a release clause in his contract.
The Fifers’ top scorer last term has left Stevie Crawford’s side after three years in Methil, where he notched 44 goals in 92 appearances.
Prolific in the second division, it is understood the 27-year-old wants to pursue a full-time football career, with a suggestion Cyprus or Malta could be possible destinations after former Dundee men Derek Soutar and Mark Fotheringham made similar moves.
McManus almost left East Fife last season to move to Shelbourne in Ireland, but a last-gasp effort by the newly-appointed Crawford persuaded the striker that his future lay at New Bayview.
Crawford’s faith was rewarded with 16 goals last term, creating an unenviable void for the manager to now fill throughout the close season.
Meanwhile, East Fife have confirmed more friendlies as part of their build-up for the new second division campaign.
The club will travel to take on Selkirk FC on July 10 before returning for three home fixtures against a Dunfermline XI on July 13, Hearts XI on July 17 and Dundee United XI on July 20.
