Dunfermline: Paul Allan says no deal offer came as a shock

The 24-year-old, who came through the former Fife Elite Football Academy, was one of six players who were released by the club last week.

Boyhood fan Allan's deal expires this summer and he wasn't offered new terms, alongside forward Alex Jakubiak, back-up goalkeeper Max Little and left back Miller Fenton, whilst youngsters Jake Rennie and Michael Beagley were also let go.

After the news of their departures was announced, Athletic assistant manager, Dave Mackay, said he and boss James McPake would have "loved to have kept him", and praised his attitude whilst stating his belief that "he's got so much potential to improve".

However, Mackay also said that the club's budget meant that they were unable to keep Allan, meaning that he moves on after 67 appearances, 33 of which came in the season just ended.

Speaking to Press Sport, Allan said: "It's obviously disappointing to leave.

"I was desperate to stay. I think the manager did express that he was wanting me to stay on, but his hands were tied. It's a disappointing situation, but I'm looking forward to what's to come next.

Paul Allan came graduated from the Fife Elite Football Academy to play for his boyhood heroes. (Image: Craig Brown.)

"I met him and Dave the week after the Ayr game (Dunfermline's final match of the season on May 3) and it came as a bit of a shock to be honest, because the chats I've had with him previously, he was really positive, he was keen to get me signed.

"Every time I spoke to my agent, the talks were good, so it came as a bit of a shock. Financially, the club weren't able to offer a deal, which is frustrating because I wanted to stay, and the manager wanted to keep me as well.

"There's not much you can do.

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"It would've made more sense, say, if the management team didn't have me in their plans, or if I had a poor season.

"You could understand that no deal would be offered, that's part and parcel of football, but it does make it that wee bit more frustrating and disappointing that both parties were keen to get something worked out and we just couldn't in the end.

"It's something to look forward to, a new chapter, and hopefully I can get something sorted soon."

Allan, who has headed off on holiday, said there was "one or two" bits of interest in his services, but "nothing concrete" as he contemplates life away from KDM Group East End Park.

Aside from loan spells with Stenhousemuir, Brechin City and Albion Rovers, Dunfermline is the only club he has turned out for in his senior career.

"I really enjoyed my time at Dunfermline," he added. "Being a local lad, it was the team I supported growing up.

"My family are season ticket holders, so they used to come and watch me play when I was at East End, so I really enjoyed my time at the club, but I'm looking forward to something new."