Farrell was Aitken’s assistant at Stair Park for three years and when Sons approached Aitken to be their new boss, Farrell was the man Stranraer wanted to be his replacement.

Farrell was Aitken’s assistant at Stair Park for three years and when Sons approached Aitken to be their new boss, Farrell was the man Stranraer wanted to be his replacement.

Despite being flattered with the offer, Farrell is confident he has made the right decision to join up with Aitken once again at the Rock.

He said: “I was honoured to be offered the job at Stranraer. It was a difficult decision to turn it down but it was the right decision because I think we work very well as a team.

“I think Stephen will be the first to say that he relies on me and I rely on Stephen, we do come as a management team.

“I was mindful of how successful we had been together and we want to continue that and I’m sure we can do that together, so it was an easy decision in the end as my loyalty lies with Stephen.” His manager was unequivocal in his praise of Farrell as they both start their tenure at Dumbarton.

Aitken said: “I’m delighted that Stevie is next to me and a special mention to him. Because from our time at Stranraer people say Stevie Aitken done this and that, but I’m very much part of a team and Stevie is vital for me, I am delighted that he is here.

“He could’ve stayed at Stranraer, they were desperate to give him the job. I’ve worked with assistant managers over the years as a player and he is the best in the business. For me to get him and Dumbarton to get him, that’s a major coup.”