We make Peterhead’s defensive dynamo SPFL Signing of the Week
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After his side’s relegation from Ladbrokes League 1 last term, Peterhead boss Jim McInally has swiftly gone about assembling a squad ready for a serious tilt at the League 2 title. And the jewel in the Blue Toon’s crown right now is new signing David McCracken.
The 35-year-old may be in the twilight of his career, but there’s no doubt he’s still a top talent at this level. In fact, he started 18 games for Championship side Falkirk last season, helping the Bairns to a number of clean sheets with his robust, assured displays and intelligent reading of the game.
As well as that, the former Wycombe Wanderers ace will add leadership on the field at Balmoor, something Peterhead were short on during key games last season.
McCracken captained Falkirk 78 times from 2014 to 2017, including in all of his 18 outings last season. So expect him to continue that role in a Blue Toon side who will surely benefit hugely from his guidance.
On that note, nobody at Balmoor – or arguably, anywhere in Ladbrokes League 2, has the experience and wisdom to match that McCracken can offer his new side.
The Glaswegian has over 400 senior games under his belt – at clubs with the pedigree of St Johnstone, Falkirk and Brentford.
Add to that the fact he’s twice been a Scottish Cup Finalist, and played in the Europa League, and it’s clear to see just how much benefit he can be to the Aberdeenshire club.
You can also include McCracken’s habit of making an impact at the other end to his list of likely contributions. The centre-back has found the net in 11 of the last 12 seasons, including a five-goal haul back for the Bairns in 2014-15.
With the fitness of a full-time player at part-time level, you can expect him to find those pockets of space in the box next season to bring Peterhead vital goals from set-pieces.
Oh, and last but not least, he’ll help the side McInally is building to gel together quickly. McCracken played in the same Dundee United side as goalkeeper Paul Jarvie for a number of years, as well as linking up fellow Balmoor newboy Wullie Gibson during the pair’s time at St Johnstone.
Peterhead are currently 13/8 market favourites to win League 2 next season, and with quality additions like this arriving on the North-East coast, it’s hard to see past the club lifting the title.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
