The two were in the running to take over at the Pars, who have only just climbed out of the relegation zone in Scotland's First Division.

They threw their hat in the ring after Stephen Kenny quit the job early last month - but club bosses admitted they had no idea who Arnold was when his application arrived.

Central Coast Mariners assistant coach, and former Dunfermline hero, Ian Ferguson was also in the running for the hotseat.

But the job has gone to another former player, Jim McIntyre, who was Kenny's assistant and has been caretaker coach since his departure.

Pars chairman John Yorkston said: "Jim has the necessary drive and commitment to guide the club back to the SPL."

The Pars have climbed to fourth in the table after McIntyre steered them to their fourth straight win, with the 2-0 victory over Livingston on Wednesday.

In a club statement, McIntyre said he was "extremely honoured to have a club such as Dunfermline Athletic as his first managerial appointment".

He added that he was "entirely focused on achieving success including a return to the SPL as soon as possible".

Yorkston said: "Under Jim's stewardship the club has moved from second bottom place in the First Division to fourth.

"He has enjoyed a number of years playing at the highest level.

"His professionalism has had an impact on the current squad who have rediscovered their competitiveness and their will to win matches.

"In addition to being first-team manager, he will also continue in his capacity as an important player for the club."