WORK is continuing at Dunfermline Athletic on bringing in new signings ahead of the new season, James McPake has confirmed.

Last week's departure of full back Josh Edwards means a replacement for last season's mainstay in the side is a number one priority with the Pars boss not ruling out further additions.

Whatever signings are introduced, one of the main tasks for the management team will be to get the first team squad back to fitness after an injury plagued end to last season.

McPake said: "We are working hard. Josh Edwards, we wish him the best of luck and we need to replace him. We need to add a bit of quality to the squad and hopefully that can happen.

"What we are trying to do is promote young players and make young players get better and that is working with the likes of Ewan Otoo, Matty Todd, Andy Tod and Kane Ritchie-Hosler.

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"They are all good players who missed a lot of last season so it is getting them going as well.

"We know where we have been and what we are trying to achieve at the club.

"Every manager would love to go and sign 10 players but that is not to say we would do that.

"From the highest level of football to the lowest level, every manager would love that option.

"When we first came to the club, myself and Dave (Mackay) were having conversations with the board and David (Cook). We are not wanting to change the squad every single transfer season.

"Last season was tough. We know where we need to strengthen and the budget is the budget. It is not something you feel the pressure of or that it is a cause for concern."

One familiar face at the Pars' pre-season has been Scottish Cup winner David Wotherspoon who has been in training with the first team - just like last summer.

While he would not be drawn into confirming if he would be making a move for him, McPake is well aware of the qualities of the player who was in the Dundee United team that won promotion to the Premiership.

READ MORE: Hunt on for Josh Edwards' replacement at Dunfermline

The experienced midfielder has won the Scottish Cup twice, and the League Cup, the first of which, in 2014, saw him play alongside Dunfermline assistant boss, Dave Mackay, who captained Saints to that triumph.

"He is a very good player," said McPake. "He is good off the ball and has had a good few seasons. Had he not got in to Dundee United, I don't think Inverness would have gone down. I have known him for so many years. He is looking really good."