BY IAIN COLLIN – @CCP_sport
FALKIRK skipper David McCracken has agreed a new 12-month deal – but the Bairns have released six other out-of-contract first-team players.
Ex-Hearts winger David Smith heads the list of departures and is joined by former Hibs defender Kevin McCann, keepers Graham Bowman and Alex Tokarczyk, forward Lewis Small and full-back Liam Dick.
However, McCracken, who joined the club in 2013 after two years with St Johnstone, has been rewarded for almost leading Falkirk back to the Premiership during an incredible season in which they reached the play-off final but lost to Kilmarnock.
Having started the campaign hampered by injury and as back-up in central defence, the 34-year-old held down a regular starting slot after Peter Grant was ruled out with a serious knee problem in February.
Making 27 appearances in all, the former Dundee United stopper played an influential role as the Bairns stormed their way to second in the Championship.
The Scotland under-21 cap has now agreed a fourth consecutive one-year contract as Peter Houston’s team seek to go one better in the league next term.
McCracken said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be looking forward to another season with Falkirk.
“The past few years there have been great progression and I’m sure next year will continue to be the same.
“It’s an honour to captain the club and lead an incredible set of players. Let’s see what excitement the new season brings.”
Smith penned a two-year contract with Falkirk in September 2014 and made 33 appearances in his first season at the club.
But his last start came way back in October last year and he failed to make a single appearance after the New Year meeting with Alloa on January 2.
