Jackie McNamara has made a dramatic return to Scottish football as Dunfermline’s new consultant.

The McNamara is back news was part of the same announcement that confirmed caretaker coach Stevie Crawford as permanent head coach, with the Pars moving swiftly to sort out their managerial set-up following Wednesday’s departure of Allan Johnston.

Completing the ex-player trio is Greg Shields, who has been installed as Crawford’s assistant. Both men have been handed permanent rolling contracts and will be joined at a later date by a third coach.

McNamara was sacked as Dundee United manager in September 2015 and resurfaced south of the border as gaffer of York City, where he would eventually become chief executive.

He has kept a low profile since but is back in business at Dunfermline, the club where he made his breakthrough as a professional before moving on to Celtic.

Pars chairman Ross McArthur confirmed: “We are also delighted to announce that Jackie McNamara and his sports consultancy company, Consilium Sports, have agreed to assist the club providing ongoing technical support to the board.

“This is another important and exciting step to further aid our football development.”

Crawford will now definitely take the team for the away match against United on Saturday, although it is unclear whether or not McNamara will attend.