Baird off to Dundee

DUNDEE yesterday confirmed the signing of departing Raith Rovers striker John Baird.

The forward scored 28 goals in two seasons at Stark’s Park after joining from Montrose, but Dens Park manager Barry Smith has swooped to land the 26-year-old on a pre-contract as he shapes his squad for a crack at promotion to the SPL next term.

Smith said “We’re delighted to have John on board for next season. He has a good track record in this division, and I’m sure he’ll be a good addition to the squad. The club knows he has had other offers – and good ones at that – but he made it clear that Dens Park was where he wanted to play his football next season, and that’s exactly the kind of player that we want at this club.”

Meanwhile Dundee will host Dundee United in a pre-season friendly in what will be the city’s first derby in almost three years. The Dens Park clash will take place on Saturday 14 July.