McPake sets up Coventry move

Dec 11 2008 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

JAMES McPake has confirmed to the Courier that he has signed a pre-contract agreement to join English Championship cracks Coventry City.

The Livingston skipper has been the subject of frenzied transfer speculation all season with a number of scouts monitoring his form.

But Chris Coleman’s Coventry have won the race for the 24-year-old defenders’ signature and he will be leaving Livingston at the end of his contract in May.

“It’s signed and sealed now and it is no secret that I’ve agreed the move,” admitted McPake.

“When I heard of their interest I was excited about the prospect of stepping up a level. It’s a massive move for me and the Championship is a great league.

“It will be a test but I can’t wait to give it my best shot.

“Chris Coleman said he noticed me when we played against Coventry in a pre-season friendly in the summer and they have also had me watched five or six times this year, so I was aware of their interest.

“I’ve signed a three-year deal with them and I’m delighted with the move.”

The classy centre-half also admitted it would be great to get the chance to tangle with two of his oldest footballing friends, and former Livi team-mates, in the Championship next season.

“West Brom are down at the bottom of the Premiership just now and Leeds are chasing promotion to the Championship – so I might get the chance to play against Graham Dorrans and Robert Snodgrass next year.

“And I’d love to give them both a bit of a kicking,” he laughed.

It has been a few weeks of turmoil at Almondvale with rumours of the club in financial turmoil dominating the sports pages and the sacking of manager Roberto Landi.

However, McPake reckons new boss Paul Hegarty can get the Lions promotion bid back on track.

“We’ve had a good few days since the boss came in,” he said.

“I know him already as he was part of the backroom staff a few years ago when I was coming through, so I know what he is all about.

“His enthusiasm has been great and there is a buzz around the dressing room.

“Quite often there is a wee revival when a club changes managers so we hope it’s the same for us and we can start winning again.”