Given your experience as a player, particularly in leadership roles such as captaincy, how did your tenure as co-manager at Falkirk alongside Lee Miller enhance your perspective on coaching and management?
“Absolutely. I gained invaluable experience during that period. Lee and I both have fond memories of our time there. The way it concluded was certainly challenging, but that’s part of football. After so many years in the game, you become accustomed to unpredictability, though it was surprising at the time.
“I found managing to be a natural extension of my playing career; transitioning from leading as a captain to working closely with Lee and coaching staff to try and maximise the team’s potential was rewarding. I was particularly fortunate to work with Peter Houston, whose transition from captain to coach served as a role model for me.
“I learned a great deal from him and continue to benefit from his insight as he is always at the end of the phone if I ever need to chat with him. His guidance helped me understand different coaching styles and reflect on my approach to management.
“I do feel a sense of unfinished business with management. Falkirk was my first significant role in management, and while I have explored several opportunities since, I have not yet secure a position. As such, my career took different directions.”
Since your time at Falkirk, you’ve taken on various roles, including coaching with the PFA. Given your previous experience at Falkirk, are you actively seeking to return to a coaching or managerial position?
“Over the past decade, I have embraced various senior roles, including serving as a captain and coaching at Peterhead with Jim McInally, which significantly contributed to my development as a coach.
“Additionally, my work with the PFA in player well-being, addressing issues ranging from injuries to more complex matters like gambling and addiction, provided me with a profound sense of purpose and allowed me to make a meaningful impact on players’ lives. Currently, I continue to engage in coaching, focusing on strength and conditioning, and supporting players through their personal and professional challenges.
“I am highly motivated to return to a more prominent coaching or managerial role. My extensive experience in diverse capacities has prepared me to contribute effectively, whether on the pitch, in a senior management role, or in player care. I remain open to exploring opportunities that will allow me to showcase my skills and passion for the game.”
Would you be open to working with an experienced manager as an assistant or a coach to get yourself back in that way?
“Absolutely. As a coach, maintaining humility is essential. With just two years of coaching experience, I know that I still have much to learn. I am open to the opportunity of working as an assistant, as it would provide valuable learning experiences.
“Continual learning is a fundamental aspect of any profession, and learning from another manager—regardless of their level of experience— would offer me a chance to further develop my skills and enhance my growth as both a coach and a manager.”
Reflecting on your playing career, particularly your formative years at Dundee United, how did your experiences at the club, surrounded by experienced professionals, shape your development?
“I often reflect on my time at Dundee United when working with current players. The environment for young players today differs significantly from the more rigorous and traditional approach of my era.
“Back then, we had to earn our place and respect, and there were strict boundaries, such as not being allowed in the first-team changing rooms. This structure is less prevalent now, making it more challenging to instill similar values.
“Despite this, I wouldn’t alter my experience; the guidance and example set by the players and coaches of that time were instrumental in shaping both my development as a player and my personal growth. I remain appreciative of those formative years at Tannadice.”
A significant moment in your career was the opportunity to play in England, a goal for many Scottish players. How did your experiences with Wycombe, MK Dons, and Brentford contribute to your development, and what did you learn from playing in different environments?
“Leaving Dundee United was a pivotal decision in my career, strongly advised by Craig Levein and Peter Houston, who believed a move would be best for all parties. Transitioning to England posed significant challenges, but it proved immensely rewarding.
“At Wycombe, under the guidance of Paul Lambert and Peter Taylor, we achieved promotion, marking a successful chapter. Each club I joined offered unique challenges and learning opportunities. Despite moving from Scotland’s top league to English League 2, the experience was invaluable, greatly broadening my understanding of the game.”
Lastly, David, considering your experiences working with managers such as Paul Lambert, Paul Ince, Peter Houston, and Derek McInnes, how have their leadership styles and approaches influenced your development as a coach and manager?
“The learning process is always ongoing. I consider myself fortunate to have begun my career under Terry Butcher and Maurice Malpas at Dundee United, which was a formative experience. Over the course of my career, I’ve absorbed valuable lessons from each manager I worked with.
“The approaches of managers like Paul Lambert, Paul Ince, and others have significantly shaped my development as both a player and a coach. I am grateful for these opportunities and the insights gained from each of these managers – especially when you analyse their careers in football – which have collectively contributed to my growth and understanding in the field.”
Featured image: David McCracken
Callum McFadden 