The well-known Scottish football manager is back in the dugout.
Dumbarton have announced the exit of manager Frank McKeown after their 4-0 loss to Clydebank - and Danny Lennon has stepped in as his interim replacement.
The Rock-based side currently at League Two level met their local rivals in a rare competitive meeting on Tuesday but lost 4-0. Defeat against Lowland League opposition dumped them out the KDM Evolution Trophy at the league phase stage, and sitting sixth in the fourth tier, McKeown has decided to leave following hierarchy talks.
Director of football Lennon steps in as interim boss to mark his return to frontline management. The former Hibs and Raith Rovers player is one of Scottish football’s most colourful characters, winning the League Cup with St Mirren, alongside stints with Cowdenbeath, Alloa Athletic, Clyde and most recently Airdrieonians. Renowned for unique tactics and colourful interviews, he will lead Dumbarton as they seek a new boss, the club hosting Stirling Albion on Saturday.
Who is the Dumbarton manager?
A club statement reads: “Dumbarton Football Club can confirm that manager Frank McKeown has taken the decision to step down from his position after a conversation with owner Mario Lapointe and the Club Board this morning. Frank joined the club in 2021 as assistant to Stevie Farrell, helping the club to promotion in 2024 was appointed manager in December 2025 taking charge of 43 matches.
“We’d like to place on record our sincere thanks to Frank for his efforts during his time with the club, and wish him all the best for the future. Director of Football Danny Lennon will take charge of the team on an interim basis and we will provide a further update on our coaching team in due course.”
Lennon only arrived at the Sons last month in his new role. He said in September: “I’m proud to have been offered the opportunity to join Dumbarton. The club has a great deal of potential and I’m excited to play a part in realising that.
“My role will involve working with the board on football matters and supporting Frank and his coaching team. It was great to meet with them and the players and I’m very much looking forward to working with Mario, Cameron and Frank moving forward.”
Owner Mario Lapointe said: “Danny is someone who is passionate about football; he is level-headed, a good communicator and a natural leader. Most importantly though he brings experience that can benefit the people around him. Including myself.
“Danny will represent men’s football on the board and will become the conduit between the club’s board and management and playing squad. I believe that Dumbarton needs experienced football leadership within it and Danny will bring that.”
Cameron Watson, Executive Director at Dumbarton, added: “Danny’s experience, knowledge and passion for the game are second to none, and he’ll be a major asset to Dumbarton. We’re delighted that he will be joining us in such a vital role, and we’re all looking forward to working with him to drive things forward on the park.”
The Scottish Football Social Club is presented by BetSBK.com | 18+ | Gamble Responsibly