David McCracken

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, McCracken began his football career at Dundee United, where he revealed that it was a two-year apprenticeship.{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/07/04/david-mccracken-in-depth-interview/|title=DAVID McCRACKEN: IN-DEPTH INTERVIEW|website=Falkirk F.C.|date=12 June 2024|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806171440/https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/07/04/david-mccracken-in-depth-interview/|archive-date=6 August 2020|url-status=live}} McCracken progressed through the youth ranks at the Tangerines, where he eventually signed his first professional contract with the club. McCracken made his competitive senior debut in a Scottish Premier League (SPL) match against Celtic on 2 May 2000, as Dundee United loss 1–0.{{cite news|title=We've a mountain to climb As Rangers celebrate with a 22-point lead over Celtic in the league, Dalglish takes stock and admits:|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12187029.weve-a-mountain-to-climb-as-rangers-celebrate-with-a-22-point-lead-over-celtic-in-the-league-dalglish-takes-stock-and-admits/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=2 May 2000|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic win but fail to impress|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12188278.celtic-win-but-fail-to-impress/|website=The Herald Scotlland|date=3 May 2000|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/37/KEVIN-MCDONALD-IN-CONTENTION.html|title=KEVIN MCDONALD IN CONTENTION|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=4 May 2000|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124173404/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/37/KEVIN-MCDONALD-IN-CONTENTION.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} In a follow–up match against Motherwell, however, he received a straight red card in the 28th minute for a professional foul on John Spencer, as the Tangerines loss 2–1.{{cite news|title=Telesnikov calls for his chairman to dig deep|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12242182.telesnikov-calls-for-his-chairman-to-dig-deep/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=15 May 2000|access-date=1 February 2025}} After the match, manager Paul Sturrock believed that McCracken was unlucky to be sent–off.{{cite news|title=Sturrock accepts apology|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12242069.sturrock-accepts-apology/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=16 May 2000|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Larsson insists he is fit enough for a final-game flourish|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12240768.larsson-insists-he-is-fit-enough-for-a-final-game-flourish/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=20 May 2000|access-date=1 February 2025}} At the end of the 1999–00 season, he made two appearances in all competitions.

Ahead of the 2000–01 season, McCracken was promoted to Dundee United’s first team squad.{{cite news|title=Valgaeren and Sutton at the ready|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12182635.valgaeren-and-sutton-at-the-ready/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=29 July 2000|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/143/DERBY-DEFENCE-DILEMMA.html|title=DERBY DEFENCE DILEMMA|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=29 September 2000|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124164216/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/143/DERBY-DEFENCE-DILEMMA.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} In the opening game of the season, he scored his first goal for the Tangerines, in a 2–1 defeat to Celtic at Tannadice.{{cite news|title=Celtic new boys off to winning start|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/858625.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=30 July 2000|access-date=1 February 2025}} However, in a match against Rangers on 1 October 2000, McCracken suffered an injury and was substituted in the 16th minute, as Dundee United loss 3–0.{{cite news|title=Sunday stroll at Ibrox as Rangers win in a canter: United fall apart before half-time as Advocaat's men narrow gap on Celtic at the top of the table|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12156128.sunday-stroll-at-ibrox-as-rangers-win-in-a-canter-united-fall-apart-before-half-time-as-advocaats-men-narrow-gap-on-celtic-at-the-top-of-the-table/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=2 October 2000|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/171/MCCRACKEN-NEARS-FULL-FITNESS.html|title=MCCRACKEN NEARS FULL FITNESS|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=24 October 2000|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20250124085044/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/8769/Amended-Opening-Hours--Friday-24-January.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} On 17 December 2000, he made his return from injury, starting a 1–1 draw against Rangers.{{cite news|title=Rangers undone by debut boy Lilley|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/1075318.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=17 December 2000|access-date=1 February 2025}} Following this, McCracken spent the rest of the 2000–01 season, playing for the club’s reserve.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/348/TASSOS-BACK-IN-THE-PICTURE.html|title=TASSOS BACK IN THE PICTURE|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=15 March 2000|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124172506/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/348/TASSOS-BACK-IN-THE-PICTURE.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} At the end of the 2000–01 season, he made nine appearances and scoring once in all competitions.

Ahead of the 2001–02 season, McCracken suffered a groin injury during the Dundee United's pre–season match.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/499/KNEE-INJURY-HINDERS-MILLERS-FITNESS-.html|title=KNEE INJURY HINDERS MILLER'S FITNESS|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=17 July 2001|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20250124164316/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/499/KNEE-INJURY-HINDERS-MILLERS-FITNESS-.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/498/TOMMO-AND-MCCRACKEN-MISS-HELMOND-MATCH-.html|title='TOMMO' AND MCCRACKEN MISS HELMOND MATCH|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=18 July 2001|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124174047/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/498/TOMMO-AND-MCCRACKEN-MISS-HELMOND-MATCH-.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} On 11 August 2001, he returned to the first team, coming on as a 76th-minute substitute in a 1–0 win against St Johnstone.{{cite news|title=United see off Saints|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/1485050.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=11 August 2001|access-date=1 February 2025}} His return led to McCracken signing a contract with the Tangerines, keeping him until 2005.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/636/IMPROVED-DEAL-FOR-DAVID-MCCRACKEN.html|title=IMPROVED DEAL FOR DAVID MCCRACKEN|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=8 October 2001|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250125141357/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/636/IMPROVED-DEAL-FOR-DAVID-MCCRACKEN.html|archive-date=25 January 2025|url-status=live}} By December, he mostly spent the rest of the season, playing for Dundee United’s reserve team.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/738/JARVIE-IN-GOAL-FOR-UNDER-21S-.html|title=JARVIE IN GOAL FOR UNDER-21'S|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=19 November 2001|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124172530/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/738/JARVIE-IN-GOAL-FOR-UNDER-21S-.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/776/UNITED-UNDER-21S-BEATEN-BY-RANGERS.html|title=UNITED UNDER-21'S BEATEN BY RANGERS|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=3 December 2001|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124162929/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/776/UNITED-UNDER-21S-BEATEN-BY-RANGERS.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/872/UNDER-21S-LOSE-TO-CHAMPIONS-CELTIC.html|title=UNDER-21'S LOSE TO CHAMPIONS CELTIC|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=27 March 2002|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124173551/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/872/UNDER-21S-LOSE-TO-CHAMPIONS-CELTIC.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} McCracken had to wait until on 23 February 2002 to make his first team return, starting the whole game, in a 2–2 draw against Ayr United in the quarter–finals of the Scottish Cup to earn a replay.{{cite news|title=Impatience is no virtue in this carnival on Tayside Smith's men have it all to do again at home of giantkillers|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12139500.impatience-is-no-virtue-in-this-carnival-on-tayside-smiths-men-have-it-all-to-do-again-at-home-of-giantkillers/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=25 February 2002|access-date=1 February 2025}} Two weeks later, on 9 March 2002, he started in the left–back position against Hearts and set up the club’s second goal of the game, in a 2–1 win.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/903/UNITED-WIN-AT-TYNECASTLE.html|title=UNITED WIN AT TYNECASTLE|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=9 March 2002|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20250124164217/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/903/UNITED-WIN-AT-TYNECASTLE.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} McCracken helped Dundee United kept three consecutive clean sheets in the league between 13 April 2002 and 27 April 2002.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/912/THOMPSON-GOAL-NETS-UNITED-THE-POINTS.html|title=THOMPSON GOAL NETS UNITED THE POINTS|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=13 April 2002|access-date=1 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250211205218/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/912/THOMPSON-GOAL-NETS-UNITED-THE-POINTS.html|archive-date=11 February 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/913/UNITED-WIN-DENS-DERBY.html|title=UNITED WIN DENS DERBY|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=20 April 2002|access-date=1 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250212204325/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/913/UNITED-WIN-DENS-DERBY.html|archive-date=12 February 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/929/UNITED-FAIL-TO-BREAK-SAINTS.html|title=UNITED FAIL TO BREAK SAINTS|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=27 April 2002|access-date=1 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250211205353/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/929/UNITED-FAIL-TO-BREAK-SAINTS.html|archive-date=11 February 2025|url-status=live}} At the end of the 2001–02 season, McCracken made twenty–four appearances in all competitions.

However, at the start of the 2002–03 season, McCracken didn’t feature in the first team for the first two months.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1051/McCRACKEN-RETURNS-TO-CENTRAL-DEFENCE.html|title=McCRACKEN RETURNS TO CENTRAL DEFENCE|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=24 September 2002|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124164616/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1051/McCRACKEN-RETURNS-TO-CENTRAL-DEFENCE.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} He made his first appearance of the season, starting the whole game, in a 4–1 win against Queen's Park in the second round of the Scottish Cup.{{cite news|title=CIS INSURANCE CUP, RD 2 round-up|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/11915104.cis-insurance-cup-rd-2-round-up/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=25 September 2002|access-date=1 February 2025}} Following this, McCracken regained his first team place, playing in the centre–back position throughout the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1080/UNITED-LET-LEAD-SLIP-AGAIN.html|title=UNITED LET LEAD SLIP AGAIN|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=26 October 2002|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124174025/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1080/UNITED-LET-LEAD-SLIP-AGAIN.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Lack of team spirit is a major worry for United|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/11912771.lack-of-team-spirit-is-a-major-worry-for-united/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=28 October 2002|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1131/UNITED-TRAVEL-TO-CITY-STADIUM.html|title=UNITED TRAVEL TO CITY STADIUM|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=26 December 2002|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124173417/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1131/UNITED-TRAVEL-TO-CITY-STADIUM.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} He then scored his first goal for Dundee United in four years, in a 2–1 loss against Hibernian on 26 April 2003.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1202/LATE-GOAL-SINKS-TANGERINES.html|title=LATE GOAL SINKS TANGERINES|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=26 April 2003|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124173854/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1202/LATE-GOAL-SINKS-TANGERINES.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} At the end of the 2002–03 season, McCracken made thirty appearances and scoring once in all competitions.

Ahead of the 2003–04 season, McCracken was told by manager Ian McCall that he must establish himself in the first team for Dundee United, having been fringe from the first team.{{cite news|title=McCracken told to stand up and be counted|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12534584.mccracken-told-to-stand-up-and-be-counted/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=23 August 2003|access-date=1 February 2025}} McCracken was subjected to a transfer move when manager McCall offered cash sum plus him, in exchange for Hibernian’s Mathias Kouo-Doumbé.{{cite news|title=Tannadice trial for French duo|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/d/dundee_utd/3187469.stm|access-date=1 February 2025|newspaper=BBC Sport|date=28 August 2003}} Motherwell also offered to sign McCracken with cash in exchange for Martyn Corrigan, but neither of the move have been materialised.{{cite news|title='Money' men anger Butcher|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12534509.money-men-anger-butcher/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=30 August 2003|access-date=1 February 2025}} After the summer transfer window, he did not play in the first team for a month and played for the Tangerines’ reserve team.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1295/UNDER-21S-WIN-AT-EASTER-ROAD.html|title=UNDER-21S WIN AT EASTER ROAD|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=11 August 2003|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20250124164559/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1295/UNDER-21S-WIN-AT-EASTER-ROAD.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1323/UNDER-21s-HAVE-TO-SETTLE-FOR-A-POINT.html|title=UNDER-21s HAVE TO SETTLE FOR A POINT|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=15 September 2003|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124165329/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1323/UNDER-21s-HAVE-TO-SETTLE-FOR-A-POINT.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1329/NO-POINTS-FOR-UNDER-21s-AT-KILMARNOCK.html|title=NO POINTS FOR UNDER-21s AT KILMARNOCK|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=29 September 2003|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124172936/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1329/NO-POINTS-FOR-UNDER-21s-AT-KILMARNOCK.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} On 18 October 2003, McCracken made his first team return, starting the whole game and helped Dundee United win 1–0 win against Aberdeen.{{cite news|title=McLaren dumps Dons|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/3195088.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=18 October 2003|access-date=1 February 2025}} Following his return from injury, he regained his first team place for the Tangerines, playing in the centre–back position.{{cite news|title=Honours even at the end of a pulsating Dundee derby battle|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12527428.honours-even-at-the-end-of-a-pulsating-dundee-derby-battle/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=27 October 2003|access-date=1 February 2025}} In a match against Hibernian on 8 November 2003, he scored a last minute own goal that saw both teams drew 2–2.{{cite news|title=McLaren shows Hibs what they missed out on|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12528291.mclaren-shows-hibs-what-they-missed-out-on/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=10 November 2003|access-date=1 February 2025}} McCracken helped the Tangerines kept three consecutive clean sheets in the league between 13 December 2003 and 27 December 2003.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1390/DODDS-AT-THE-DOUBLE-FOR-UNITED.html|title=DODDS AT THE DOUBLE FOR UNITED|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=13 December 2003|access-date=1 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250213200113/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1390/DODDS-AT-THE-DOUBLE-FOR-UNITED.html|archive-date=13 February 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1381/UNITED-SHARE-POINTS-WITH-PARTICK.html|title=UNITED SHARE POINTS WITH PARTICK|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=23 December 2003|access-date=1 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250214082518/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1381/UNITED-SHARE-POINTS-WITH-PARTICK.html|archive-date=14 February 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1393/UNITED-CLIMB-TO-SEVENTH.html|title=UNITED CLIMB TO SEVENTH|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=27 December 2003|access-date=1 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250214082515/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1393/UNITED-CLIMB-TO-SEVENTH.html|archive-date=14 February 2025|url-status=live}} On 17 April 2004 McCracken scored his first goal of the season, in a 1–1 draw against Dunfermline Athletic.{{cite news|title=Dunfermline Athletic 1–1 Dundee United|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/3630501.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=17 April 2004|access-date=1 February 2025}} He was then part of the side that finished fifth in the league to give the Dundee United their best finish since 1996–97. At the end of the 2003–04 season, McCracken made thirty–four appearances and scoring once in all competitions, bringing his total appearances to 99 for the Tangerines.

At the start of the 2004–05 season, McCracken continued to remain in the first team spotlight, playing in the centre–back position.{{cite news|title=Robson bursts Rangers bubble McLeish's title challenge falters after revival grinds to a halt at hands of former Ibrox trainee|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12413397.robson-bursts-rangers-bubble-mcleishs-title-challenge-falters-after-revival-grinds-to-a-halt-at-hands-of-former-ibrox-trainee/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=25 October 2004|access-date=1 February 2025}} He captained Dundee United for the first time in his career and helped the club beat Stranraer in the second round of the Scottish League Cup.{{cite news|title=McCracken given timely boost by manager ahead of CIS Cup clash|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12420446.mccracken-given-timely-boost-by-manager-ahead-of-cis-cup-clash/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=25 August 2004|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1581/UNITED-3-STRANRAER-1.html|title=UNITED 3 STRANRAER 1|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=25 August 2004|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124173548/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1581/UNITED-3-STRANRAER-1.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} However, his performance soon dipped and was dropped to the substitute bench.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1611/DEFEAT-AT-EASTER-ROAD-AS-UNITED-LACK-CUTTING-EDGE.html|title=DEFEAT AT EASTER ROAD AS UNITED LACK CUTTING EDGE|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=16 October 2004|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20250124164535/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1611/DEFEAT-AT-EASTER-ROAD-AS-UNITED-LACK-CUTTING-EDGE.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1637/DUNDEE-1---UNITED-0.html|title=DUNDEE 1 - UNITED 0|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=6 November 2004|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240527103903/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1637/DUNDEE-1---UNITED-0.html|archive-date=27 May 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1672/DUNFERMLINE-1-UNITED-1.html|title=DUNFERMLINE 1 UNITED 1|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=22 January 2005|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124173934/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1672/DUNFERMLINE-1-UNITED-1.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} Despite this, McCracken came on as a 82nd minute substitute and played through extra time, as he helped the Tangerines beat Hibernian 2–1 to reach the semi-finals of the Scottish League Cup.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1649/UNITED-THROUGH-TO-SEMI-FINALS.html|title=UNITED THROUGH TO SEMI FINALS|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=9 November 2004|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124164037/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1649/UNITED-THROUGH-TO-SEMI-FINALS.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} In a follow–up match against Livingston, McCracken scored the only goal of the game, in a 1–0 win.{{cite news|title=Dundee Utd 1–0 Livingston|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4000787.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=13 November 2004|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 1 January 2005, he scored the opening goal of the game with a header, in a 1–1 draw against Rangers.{{cite news|title=Dundee United 1–1 Rangers|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4137059.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=1 January 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}} With his contract expiring at the end of the 2004–05 season, manager McCall ruled out selling McCracken after he was linked with a move to Livingston.{{cite news|title=McCracken staying at Tannadice|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12406927.mccracken-staying-at-tannadice/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=6 January 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}} However, during the fourth round of the Scottish Cup tie against Queen of the South, McCracken suffered a foot injury and was substituted in the 36th minute, as Dundee United won 3–0.{{cite news|title=Dead man walking dodges fatal blow|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12407190.dead-man-walking-dodges-fatal-blow/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=6 February 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 5 March 2005 he made his return from injury, only to be substituted after suffering an elbow injury in the 11th minute, as the Tangerines loss 2–0 against Motherwell.{{cite news|title=McCall finds escape route blocked again as United rue missed chances|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12405526.mccall-finds-escape-route-blocked-again-as-united-rue-missed-chances/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=7 March 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}} After being out for two months, McCracken made his return from injury, coming on as a late substitute, in a 1–0 loss against Dunfermline Athletic on 15 May 2005.{{cite news|title=Dundee Utd 0–1 Dunfermline Athletic|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4542331.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=15 May 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}} He appeared as an unused substitute in the Scottish Cup final, as Dundee United lost 1–0 against Celtic.{{cite news|title=Celtic 1–0 Dundee United|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_div_1/4586123.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=29 May 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}}{{cite news|title=Why I swapped Celtic and Rangers for Wycombe|url=http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1473087.Why_I_swapped_Celtic_and_Rangers_for_Wycombe/|publisher=Bucks Free Press|date=15 June 2007|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305220816/http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1473087.Why_I_swapped_Celtic_and_Rangers_for_Wycombe/|archive-date=5 March 2014|url-status=dead}} At the end of the 2004–05 season, McCracken made thirty–one appearances and scoring two times in all competitions. He ended the speculation to his future at the Tangerines by being awarded a new two-year contract on 19 July 2005.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/d/dundee_utd/4698317.stm|title=McCracken extends Tannadice stay|publisher=BBC Sport|date=19 July 2005}}{{cite news|title=TRANSFER TALK|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12489629.transfer-talk/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=29 May 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=TRANSFER TALK|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12487713.transfer-talk/|website=The Herad Scotland|date=12 June 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1820/DAVID-McCRACKEN-SIGNS-NEW-CONTRACT.html|title=DAVID McCRACKEN SIGNS NEW CONTRACT|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=19 July 2005|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20250124174316/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1820/DAVID-McCRACKEN-SIGNS-NEW-CONTRACT.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}

At the start of the 2005–06 season, McCracken made his European debut, starting the whole game, in a 0–0 draw against MyPa in the first leg of the UEFA Cup second qualifying round.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1865/MYPA-0---0-UNITED.html|title=MYPA 0–0 UNITED|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=11 August 2005|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20250125142119/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1865/MYPA-0---0-UNITED.html|archive-date=25 January 2025|url-status=live}} However, his performance dipped once again that he was dropped to the substitute bench for three matches.{{cite news|title=Magical debut by Oriental sorcerer|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12481340.magical-debut-by-oriental-sorcerer/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=7 August 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1857/UNITED-EDGE-AMAZING-NINE-GOAL-THRILLER.html|title=UNITED EDGE AMAZING NINE-GOAL THRILLER|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=20 August 2005|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124163034/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1857/UNITED-EDGE-AMAZING-NINE-GOAL-THRILLER.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Motherwell defence marginally worse as United mount comebacks|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12482596.motherwell-defence-marginally-worse-as-united-mount-comebacks/|website=The Herald Scot|date=22 August 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 17 September 2005 McCracken made his return to the starting line–up in a 2–0 win against Livingston.{{cite news|title=Dundee United 2–0 Livingston|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4251198.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=17 September 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}} A week later, on 24 September 2005, he scored his first goal of the season, in a 2–1 loss against Dunfermline Athletic.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1886/DEFEAT-BUILDS-PRESSURE-ON-UNDER-PERFORMING-UNITED.html|title=DEFEAT BUILDS PRESSURE ON UNDER-PERFORMING UNITED|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=24 September 2005|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20250125143541/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1886/DEFEAT-BUILDS-PRESSURE-ON-UNDER-PERFORMING-UNITED.html|archive-date=25 January 2025|url-status=live}} Following this, McCracken regained his first team place, playing in the centre–back position.{{cite news|title=Luck turns for Robson as United finally hit form|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12475789.luck-turns-for-robson-as-united-finally-hit-form/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=24 October 2005|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1961/UNITED-2-FALKIRK-1.html|title=UNITED 2 FALKIRK 1|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=15 January 2006|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20250124163617/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/1961/UNITED-2-FALKIRK-1.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=United's disarray has fans in despair|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12441479.uniteds-disarray-fans-despair/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=1 May 2006|access-date=1 February 2025}} He then scored his second goal of the season to help Dundee United drew 2–2 against Kilmarnock on 25 March 2006.{{cite news|title=Dundee United 2–2 Kilmarnock|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/4836904.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=25 March 2006|access-date=1 February 2025}} On the last game of the season, McCracken helped the Tangerines drew 1–1 against Motherwell to earn a ninth place finish in the SPL for a second consecutive season.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2043/SAMMYS-STRIKE-SECURES-9TH-PLACE-.html|title=SAMMY'S STRIKE SECURES 9TH PLACE|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=6 May 2006|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124170433/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2043/SAMMYS-STRIKE-SECURES-9TH-PLACE-.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} At the end of the 2005–06 season, he made thirty–seven appearances and scoring two times in all competitions, taking his total of appearances for Dundee United to 165.

The start of the 2006–07 season saw McCracken started in the first six league matches for Dundee United.{{cite news|title=Rangers 2–2 Dundee United|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/5245078.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=5 August 2006|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2081/TEN-MAN-UNITED-EARN-RUGBY-POINT.html|title=TEN-MAN UNITED EARN RUGBY POINT|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=12 August 2006|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124170453/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2081/TEN-MAN-UNITED-EARN-RUGBY-POINT.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Dundee United 0-0 Dunfermline Athletic|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/5262540.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=19 August 2006|access-date=1 February 2025}} However, he missed one match due to an injury.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2093/ICT-0---0-DUNDEE-UNITED.html|title=ICT 0–0 DUNDEE UNITED|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=16 September 2006|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124173842/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2093/ICT-0---0-DUNDEE-UNITED.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} But McCracken made his return to the starting line–up, in a 1–1 draw against Motherwell on 23 September 2006.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2091/UNITED-1-MOTHERWELL-1.html|title=UNITED 1 MOTHERWELL 1|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=23 September 2006|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250125154111/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2091/UNITED-1-MOTHERWELL-1.html|archive-date=25 January 2025|url-status=live}} Following this, he regained his first team place, playing in the centre–back position.{{cite news|title=LURKING IN THE SHADOWS HEARTS v DUNDEE UNITED Stewart Fisher examines the mysterious figures in the Tynecastle coaching set-up|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12512415.lurking-shadows-hearts-v-dundee-united-stewart-fisher-examines-mysterious-figures-tynecastle-coaching-set-up/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=1 October 2006|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2120/UNITED-1---CELTIC-4.html|title=UNITED 1 - CELTIC 4|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=14 October 2006|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124173512/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2120/UNITED-1---CELTIC-4.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Firm new sense of optimism|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12759469.firm-new-sense-optimism/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=30 December 2006|access-date=1 February 2025}} This last until he suffered a hamstring injury that saw him out for three matches.{{cite news|title=THEGAME|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12476274.thegame/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=26 November 2006|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2133/UNITED-1-ST-MIRREN-0.html|title=UNITED 1 ST MIRREN 0|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=26 November 2006|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124172957/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2133/UNITED-1-ST-MIRREN-0.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} McCracken scored on his return from injury, in a 3–2 win against Motherwell on 16 December 2006.{{cite news|title=Tactical triumph for Levein|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12436006.tactical-triumph-levein/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=16 December 2006|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 19 January 2007, McCracken was told he was free to leave the Tangerines at the end of the 2006–07 season.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/d/dundee_utd/6277433.stm|title=Dundee Utd tell McCracken to go|publisher=BBC Sport|date=19 January 2007}} Despite this, McCracken’s place in the first team at Dundee United was not affected as the season went by.{{cite news|title=Unhealthy competition|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12764113.unhealthy-competition/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=27 January 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Duncan dares to dream of Hampden|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12763779.duncan-dares-dream-hampden/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=3 February 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Aberdeen 2–4 Dundee United|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12774531.aberdeen-2---4-dundee-united/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=4 April 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}} He then helped the Tangerines kept three consecutive clean sheets in the league between 27 January 2007 and 18 February 2007.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2175/DEFENCES-ON-TOP-AS-UNITED-AND-PARS-DRAW-A-BLANK.html|title=DEFENCES ON TOP AS UNITED AND PARS DRAW A BLANK|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=27 January 2007|access-date=22 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250221152330/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2175/DEFENCES-ON-TOP-AS-UNITED-AND-PARS-DRAW-A-BLANK.html|archive-date=21 February 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2206/SENSATIONAL-ROBSON-STRIKE-STUNS-ST-MIRREN-.html|title=SENSATIONAL ROBSON STRIKE STUNS ST MIRREN|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=10 February 2007|access-date=1 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250220091442/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2206/SENSATIONAL-ROBSON-STRIKE-STUNS-ST-MIRREN-.html|archive-date=20 February 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2198/STALEMATE-AGAINST-HIBS.html|title=STALEMATE AGAINST HIBS|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=18 February 2007|access-date=1 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250220093405/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/2198/STALEMATE-AGAINST-HIBS.html|archive-date=20 February 2025|url-status=live}} McCracken made his final appearance for Dundee United on the last game of the season, starting the whole game, in a 0–0 draw at home to Motherwell.{{cite news|title=Malpas gets Coakley backing|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/12764153.malpas-gets-coakley-backing/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=19 May 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Dundee United 0–0 Motherwell|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/scot_prem/6666775.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=19 May 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}} At the end of the 2006–07 season, McCracken made thirty–six appearances and scoring once in all competitions.

McCracken said he was interested in playing in England after leaving Dundee United.{{cite news|title=Lambert looks north to strengthen defence|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1438732.lambert-looks-north-to-strengthen-defence/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=1 May 2013|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 13 June 2007, McCracken joined Wycombe Wanderers on a two-year deal, playing his first English club.{{cite news|title=Blues sign Dundee United's McCracken|url=http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1467140.Blues_sign_Dundee_United_s_McCracken/|publisher=Bucks Free Press|date=13 June 2008|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305220324/http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1467140.Blues_sign_Dundee_United_s_McCracken/|archive-date=5 March 2014|url-status=dead}} After the move, he says joining the Chairboys was good opportunities to work under manager compatriot Paul Lambert.

McCracken was then announced as captain on 9 August 2007, having captained Wycombe Wanderers in the pre–season matches.{{cite news|title=Captain in waiting?|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1583970.captain-in-waiting/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=31 July 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=McCracken ready for armband|url=http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1608286.McCracken_ready_for_armband/|publisher=Bucks Free Press|date=10 August 2007|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305013125/http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1608286.McCracken_ready_for_armband/|archive-date=5 March 2016|url-status=dead}} He made his debut for the Chairboys, starting the whole game, in the 1–0 loss at home to Accrington Stanley in the opening game of the season.{{cite news|title=Blues suffer opening-day defeat|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1612216.blues-suffer-opening-day-defeat/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=11 August 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}} Following the Chairboys’ defeat against Peterborough United on 14 October 2007, his performance along with the defenders were criticised by manager Lambert for lacking courage, which McCracken agreed with his words in response.{{cite news|title=Peterborough United 2–1 Wycombe Wanderers|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7031515.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=14 October 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Lambert blasts defending|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1770710.lambert-blasts-defending/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=19 October 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}} Since joining Wycombe Wanderers, McCracken started the first thirteen league matches of the season until missing one match through suspension.{{cite news|title=Striker Scott breaks his duck|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1708349.striker-scott-breaks-his-duck/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=22 September 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=McCracken back in the squad|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1814205.mccracken-back-in-the-squad/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=7 November 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}} He made his return to the first team, starting the whole game, in a 0–0 draw against Wrexham on 7 November 2007.{{cite news|title=Draw feels like a defeat for Lambert's lacklustre Blues|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1817782.draw-feels-like-a-defeat-for-lamberts-lacklustre-blues/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=7 November 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}} However, his return was short–lived when McCracken suffered a tore calf injury and was out for two weeks.{{cite news|title=Blues skipper ruled out|url=http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1836802.Blues_skipper_ruled_out/|publisher=Bucks Free Press|date=16 November 2007|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304093754/http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1836802.Blues_skipper_ruled_out/|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=dead}} On 14 December 2007 he returned from injury, starting in a 2–0 win over Morecambe.{{cite news|title=Morecambe and Rise|url=http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1907172.Morecambe_and_Rise/|publisher=Bucks Free Press|date=14 December 2007|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304070721/http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1907172.Morecambe_and_Rise/|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=dead}} McCracken then helped the Chairboys kept three consecutive clean sheets in the league between 29 December 2007 and 8 January 2008.{{cite news|title=Blues hang on to Sutton's winner|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1932703.blues-hang-on-to-suttons-winner/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=29 December 2007|access-date=1 March 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Blues make it five unbeaten|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1935855.blues-make-it-five-unbeaten/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=1 January 2008|access-date=1 March 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Woodman error costs the Blues|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1961581.woodman-error-costs-the-blues/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=8 January 2008|access-date=1 March 2025}} Following his return from injury, he regained his first team place, playing in the centre–back position, as well as, retaining his captaincy.{{cite news|title=Blues come from behind to sting the Bees|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1927317.blues-come-from-behind-to-sting-the-bees/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=26 December 2007|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=McGleish's stunner sees off Spireites|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/1997272.mcgleishs-stunner-sees-off-spireites/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=26 January 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Winning start for new signing Lennon|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2014637.winning-start-for-new-signing-lennon/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=2 February 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} In a match against Bury on 12 February 2008, McCracken made a mistake that led to the opposition team scoring an equaliser, costing Wycombe Wanderers a win, in a 2–2 draw.{{cite news|title=Kamikaze Blues blow two-goal lead|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2039501.kamikaze-blues-blow-two-goal-lead/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=12 February 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} Four days later, on 16 February 2008, he made amends for mistakes by scoring his first goal, in the 1–0 home win over Rotherham United, which was his only goal in his first season at Adams Park.{{cite news|title=Villain to hero for Blues skipper|url=http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2054488.Villain_to_hero_for_Blues_skipper/|publisher=Bucks Free Press|date=19 February 2008|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304090201/http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2054488.Villain_to_hero_for_Blues_skipper/|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=dead}} However, in a match against Hereford United on 15 March 2008, McCracken suffered an injury and was taken off at half–time, as Wycombe Wanderers loss 1–0.{{cite news|title=Own goal defeats the Blues|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2123101.own-goal-defeats-the-blues/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=18 March 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Dave is Mr McCracking|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2205793.dave-is-mr-mccracking/|website=Bucks |date=17 April 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 15 April 2008 he returned from injury, coming on as a late substitute in a 1–0 win against Grimsby Town.{{cite news|title=Lovely Jubbly as Del Boy inspires Blues|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2199488.lovely-jubbly-as-del-boy-inspires-blues/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=15 April 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}} However, McCracken appeared an unused substitute bench in both legs of the League Two play–offs, as Wycombe Wanderers loss 2–1 on aggregate.{{cite news|title=Stockport 1-0 Wycombe (agg 2-1)|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7393798.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=17 May 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} He successfully predicted that the season would be a failure if the Chairboys didn’t make it to the Football League Two play-off final.{{cite news|title=Missing out would be failure for Blues|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2258182.missing-out-would-be-failure-for-blues/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=9 May 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} Following the resignation of manager Lambert, McCracken said he was devastated to hear the news, having persuaded him to make a move to the Chairboys and felt the squad let him down because of this.{{cite news|title=Skipper fears players may want away from Adams Park|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2291481.skipper-fears-players-may-want-away-from-adams-park/|publisher=Bucks Free Press|date=23 May 2008|access-date=2 May 2013}} At the end of the 2007–08 season, McCracken went on to make forty appearances and scoring once in all competitions.

However, McCracken missed the opening game of the 2008–09 season, due to a calf injury.{{cite news|title=Taylor: I want us to entertain fans|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2420454.taylor-i-want-us-to-entertain-fans/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=8 August 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} He made his first appearance of the season, starting the whole game, in a 2–0 win against Chester City on 16 August 2008.{{cite news|title=Amersham ace fires Blues towards first win|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2427095.amersham-ace-fires-blues-towards-first-win/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=16 August 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} This was followed up by leading Wycombe Wanderers to keep four consecutive clean sheets in the next four league matches.{{cite news|title=Woodman cuts down Lincoln|url=http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2432118.woodman-cuts-down-lincoln/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=23 August 2008|access-date=2 March 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Williamson makes it a winning hat-trick|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2436764.williamson-makes-it-a-winning-hat-trick/|website=Bucks Free Press |date=30 August 2008|access-date=2 March 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Rochdale 0-1 Wycombe Wanderers|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7588696.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=6 September 2008|access-date=2 March 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Wycombe Wanderers 0–0 Brentford|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7602073.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=13 September 2008|access-date=2 March 2025}} Following his return, McCracken continued to remain as the captain of the Chairboys.{{cite news|title=Carry on Cracks|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2414443.carry-on-cracks/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=1 August 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} He also spoke out that the Chairboys should "try and achieve the same again" on reaching the Football League play-offs in order to reach promotion to League One.{{cite news|title=McCracken: We can't afford a play-off hang-over|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/2420464.mccracken-we-cant-afford-a-play-off-hang-over/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=8 August 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Cracks puts Blues over Old Firm|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/3647364.cracks-puts-blues-over-old-firm/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=5 September 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} In a match against Bury on 27 September 2008, McCracken headed in a goal, only for the goal to be disallowed despite the ball went over the line, as the Chairboys drew 0–0.{{cite news|title=Blues mean defence does it again|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/3708905.blues-mean-defence-does-it-again/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=27 September 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Calamity ref returns tomorrow|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/3722937.calamity-ref-returns-tomorrow/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=3 October 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} After the match, he was critical of referee Stuart Attwell’s decision to disallow his goal. Despite this, McCracken led Wycombe Wanderers keeping three consecutive clean sheets in the league between 25 October 2008 and 15 November 2008.{{cite news|title=Accrington Stanley 0–1 Wycombe Wanderers|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7675561.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=25 October 2008|access-date=2 March 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Rotherham United 0–0 Wycombe Wanderers|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7686172.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=1 November 2008|access-date=2 March 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Wycombe Wanderers 1–0 Bradford City|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7713365.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=15 November 2008|access-date=2 March 2025}} Following this, he led the Chairboys go on a winning start that saw them unbeaten for the first four months to the season.{{cite news|title=Taylor needs to throw caution to the wind|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/3680676.taylor-needs-to-throw-caution-to-the-wind/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=17 September 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Late goal saves Wycombe's unbeaten start|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/3749336.late-goal-saves-wycombes-unbeaten-start/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=11 October 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Week off will have helped us|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/3969676.week-off-will-have-helped-us/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=13 December 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} In a match against Gillingham on 28 December 2008, however, he suffered a calf injury and was substituted in the 15th minute, as the match ended in a 1–1 draw.{{cite news|title=Weston denies Blues victory|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4005679.weston-denies-blues-victory/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=28 December 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Taylor's happy with his nine to five|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4008900.taylors-happy-with-his-nine-to-five/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=30 December 2008|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 23 January 2009, McCracken’s improved contract with Wycombe Wanderers was stalled, leading been the subject of transfer speculation.{{cite news|title=Blues in demand|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4042792.blues-in-demand/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=13 January 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Blues skipper delays signing new deal|url=http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4068875.Blues_skipper_delays_signing_new_deal/|publisher=Bucks Free Press|date=23 January 2009|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304130714/http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4068875.Blues_skipper_delays_signing_new_deal/|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=dead}} The next day on 24 January 2009, he made his return from injury, starting the whole game, in a 3–1 loss against AFC Bournemouth.{{cite news|title=Wanderers' worrying wobble continues as Cherries pick them off|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4074103.wanderers-worrying-wobble-continues-as-cherries-pick-them-off/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=24 January 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}} Following his return from injury, McCracken regained his first team place, as he led the Chairboys maintain their good form in League Two.{{cite news|title=That C-word has got us all swearing|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/4086660.that-c-word-has-got-us-all-swearing/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=29 January 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Blues drop down to third|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4163165.blues-drop-down-to-third/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=28 February 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Cracks: We are turning it around|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4166721.cracks-we-are-turning-it-around/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=2 March 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}} McCracken, once again, led Wycombe Wanderers keep four consecutive clean sheets in the four league matches between 17 February 2009 and 3 March 2009.{{cite news|title=Dagenham & Redbridge 0–1 Wycombe Wanderers|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7884017.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=17 February 2009|access-date=2 March 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Wycombe Wanderers 0–0 Rotherham United|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7886476.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=23 February 2009|access-date=2 March 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Morecambe 0–0 Wycombe Wanderers|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7899829.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=28 February 2009|access-date=2 March 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Wycombe Wanderers 2–0 Chester|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/7908283.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=3 March 2009|access-date=2 March 2025}} However, in a match against Lincoln City on 10 March 2009, he suffered a groin injury and was substituted in the 54th minute, as the Chairboys loss 1–0.{{cite news|title=Elding strike ends Blues' unbeaten run|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4192659.elding-strike-ends-blues-unbeaten-run/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=11 March 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Taylor dismisses talk of title deciders|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4198442.taylor-dismisses-talk-of-title-deciders/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=13 March 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 7 April 2009 McCracken returned from injury and set up the opening goal for John Akinde as Wycombe Wanderers won 2–1 against Darlington.{{cite news|title=Beavon and McCracken join the squad|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4272433.beavon-and-mccracken-join-the-squad/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=7 April 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Zebroski steals it in injury time|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4274842.zebroski-steals-it-in-injury-time/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=7 April 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}} On the last game of the season against Notts County, he scored an equalising goal from a six yards, as the match ended in a 1–2 home defeat, but the Chairboys were automatically promoted to Football League One nevertheless.{{cite news|title=They've done it!|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4338931.theyve-done-it/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=2 May 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}} At the end of the 2008–09 season, McCracken made forty–two appearances and scoring once in all competitions. For his performance, he was named in the PFA League Two Team of the Year for the 2008–09 season.{{cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11751_5244836,00.html|title=League Two Team of the Year|publisher=Sky Sports|date=28 April 2009|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090501210314/http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11751_5244836,00.html|archive-date=1 May 2009|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/8019726.stm|title=Giggs earns prestigious PFA award|publisher=BBC Sport|date=26 April 2009|access-date=20 December 2022}}

With his future at Wycombe Wanderers increasingly uncertain, McCracken was offered a new contract.{{cite news|title=McCracken keeps Blues waiting|url=http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4403689.McCracken_keeps_Blues_waiting/|publisher=Bucks Free Press|date=29 May 2009|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304120104/http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4403689.McCracken_keeps_Blues_waiting/|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Keeping Cracks is priority|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4350606.keeping-cracks-is-priority/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=8 May 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}} However, on 18 June 2009, he, once again, turned down another deal with the Chairboys.{{cite news|title=Skipper quits for Dons and say keeping Taylor is crucial|url=http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4452970.Skipper_quits_for_Dons_and_say_keeping_Taylor_is_crucial/|publisher=Bucks Free Press|date=23 June 2009|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304082631/http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4452970.Skipper_quits_for_Dons_and_say_keeping_Taylor_is_crucial/|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=dead}}

On 20 June 2009 it was announced that he had signed for the Chairboys' neighbours Milton Keynes Dons on a two-year deal.{{cite news|title=Wycombe skipper to join MK Dons|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/milton_keynes_dons/8110432.stm|publisher=BBC|date=20 June 2009|access-date=18 March 2010}} On his first training with the Dons, McCracken said he never meet manager Roberto Di Matteo, who departed to manage West Bromwich Albion.{{cite news|title=I never even met Di Matteo admits McCracken|url=http://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/sport/i-never-even-met-di-matteo-admits-mccracken-1-869686|publisher=Milton Keynes Citizen|date=1 July 2009|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518072053/http://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/sport/i-never-even-met-di-matteo-admits-mccracken-1-869686|archive-date=18 May 2015|url-status=dead}}

McCracken made his Milton Keynes Dons' debut in the opening game of the season, in a 0–0 draw against Hartlepool United.{{cite news|title=Milton Keynes Dons 0 – 0 Hartlepool United|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_2/8186159.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=10 August 2009|access-date=29 August 2016}} In a follow–up match against Swindon Town, he scored an own goal, in a 4–1 loss that saw the Dons eliminated in the first round of the League Cup.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~49716%2C00.html|title=MK Dons vs Swindon Town|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=11 August 2009|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100311213944/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~49716,00.html|archive-date=11 March 2010|url-status=dead}} This was followed up by keeping two clean sheets in the league.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~49173%2C00.html|title=Swindon Town v Milton Keynes Dons|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=15 August 2009|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100311213939/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~49173,00.html|archive-date=11 March 2010|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~49216%2C00.html|title=Tranmere Rovers v Milton Keynes Dons|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=18 August 2009|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090822102729/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~49216,00.html|archive-date=22 August 2009|url-status=dead}} On 18 September 2009, in a buildup to a match against his former club Wycombe Wanderers at Adams Park, manager Peter Taylor warned the club's supporter not to boo McCracken, as it would make him more motivated.{{cite news|title=Booing McCracken could inspire him|url=http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4635597.Booing_McCracken_could_inspire_him/|publisher=Bucks Free Press|date=18 September 2009|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305012840/http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/4635597.Booing_McCracken_could_inspire_him/|archive-date=5 March 2016|url-status=dead}} His words proven to be right, as he helped Milton Keynes Dons win 1–0 against his former club on 19 September 2009.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~47573%2C00.html|title=Wycombe Wanderers vs Milton Keynes Dons|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=19 September 2009|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100318052458/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~47573,00.html|archive-date=18 March 2010|url-status=dead}} Since joining the Dons, McCracken quickly became a first team regular under Paul Ince and formed a centre–back partnership with Dean Lewington.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~47719%2C00.html|title=Milton Keynes Dons vs Walsall|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=10 October 2009|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100318035051/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~47719,00.html|archive-date=18 March 2010|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~48420%2C00.html|title=Milton Keynes Dons vs Bristol Rovers|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=31 October 2009|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105063130/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~48420,00.html|archive-date=5 January 2010|url-status=dead}} He helped Milton Keynes Dons keep four consecutive clean sheets between 3 October 2009 and 17 October 2009.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~47690%2C00.html|title=Brighton and Hove Albion vs Milton Keynes Dons|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=3 October 2009|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100915153149/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~47690,00.html|archive-date=15 September 2010|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~50871%2C00.html|title=Milton Keynes Dons vs Southend United|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=6 October 2009|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100112124207/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~50871,00.html|archive-date=12 January 2010|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~47719%2C00.html|title=Milton Keynes Dons vs Walsall|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=10 October 2009|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100318035051/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~47719,00.html|archive-date=18 March 2010|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~47761%2C00.html|title=Milton Keynes Dons vs Gillingham|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date= 17 October 2009|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100318044725/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~47761,00.html|archive-date=18 March 2010|url-status=dead}} McCracken also started in every league match since the start of the season until he missed one match, due to accumulating five yellow cards.{{cite news|title=Leyton Orient v MK Dons: Head to head|url=https://www.guardian-series.co.uk/sport/4785810.leyton-orient-v-mk-dons-head-to-head/|website=Guardian Series|date=11 December 2009|access-date=1 February 2025}} After serving a one match suspension, McCracken made his return to the starting line–up, in a 4–1 win against Hereford United in the quarter–finals of the Football League Trophy.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~51120%2C00.html|title=Hereford United v Milton Keynes Dons|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=15 September 2009|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100318052740/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~51120,00.html|archive-date=18 March 2010|url-status=dead}} However, in a match against Stockport County on 6 February 2010, he suffered a calf injury and was substituted, as the club won 3–1.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~47957%2C00.html|title=Stockport County v Milton Keynes Dons|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=6 February 2010|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100317151034/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~47957,00.html|archive-date=17 March 2010|url-status=dead}} After missing two matches, McCracken made his return to the starting line–up, in a 3–1 win against Southend United on 20 February 2010.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~48070%2C00.htm|title=Milton Keynes Dons v Southend United|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=20 February 2010|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100224074305/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~48070,00.html|archive-date=24 February 2010|url-status=dead}} A month later, on 27 March 2010, he scored his first goal for the club, in a 2–2 draw against Gillingham.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~48833%2C00.html|title=Gillingham v Milton Keynes Dons|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=27 March 2010|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100412010718/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~48833,00.html|archive-date=12 April 2010|url-status=dead}} After serving a two match suspension, McCracken made his return to the starting line–up, starting the whole game, in a 3–2 loss against Wycombe Wanderers on 17 April 2010.{{cite news|title=Waddock: We must raise it another notch|url=https://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/sport/8101938.waddock-we-must-raise-it-another-notch/|website=Bucks Free Press|date=16 April 2010|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~49011%2C00.html|title=Milton Keynes Dons v Wycombe Wanderers|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=17 April 2010|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100421214946/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~49011,00.html|archive-date=21 April 2010|url-status=dead}} In a follow–up match against Leeds United, he received a straight red card in the 85th minute for a foul on Jermaine Beckford, as Milton Keynes Dons loss 4–1.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~49054%2C00.html|title=Leeds United v Milton Keynes Dons|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=24 April 2010|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100428224235/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~49054,00.html|archive-date=28 April 2010|url-status=dead}} But on the last game of the season, McCracken made his return to the starting line–up, in a 2–1 win against Walsall.{{cite web|url=http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10420~47514%2C00.html|title=Walsall v Milton Keynes Dons|website=Milton Keynes Dons F.C.|date=8 May 2010|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100810211504/http://www.mkdons.com/page/MatchReport/0,,10420~47514,00.html|archive-date=10 August 2010|url-status=dead}} At the end of the 2009–10 season, he made forty–eight appearances and scoring once in all competitions.

On 3 July 2010, McCracken signed a two-year contract with another League One side Brentford.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/b/brentford/8784795.stm|title=Brentford sign David McCracken and Michael Spillane|date=2 July 2010|publisher=BBC Sport|access-date=3 July 2010}} Upon joining the Bees, he said joining the club left him playing catch-up in terms of pre-season training.{{cite news|title=Brentford's McCracken plays pre-season catch-up|url=https://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/sport/8258759.brentfords-mccracken-plays-pre-season-catch-up/|publisher=Your Local Guardian|date=7 July 2010|access-date=2 May 2013}}

McCracken made his debut for Brentford debut in the opening game of the season against Carlisle United, where he played 45 minutes before being substituted at half time, in a 2–0 loss.{{cite news|title=Disjointed Bees slip up at Carlisle|url=https://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/sport/8320174.disjointed-bees-slip-up-at-carlisle/|website=Your Local Guardian|date=9 August 2010|access-date=1 February 2025}} Following, he made a little impact at the Bees and found himself placed on the substitute bench and made two more starts for the side.{{cite news|title=Exeter City 2 Brentford 4|url=https://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/sport/8486391.exeter-city-2-brentford-4/|website=Your Local Guardian|date=1 November 2010|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Crisis in Bees back four|url=https://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/sport/8669451.crisis-in-bees-back-four/|website=Your Local Guardian|date=16 November 2010|access-date=1 February 2025}} By the time McCracken left Brentford, he made three appearances in all competitions. On 23 June 2011, McCracken was released by the Bees after his contract was terminated by mutual consent.{{cite news|title=Saints snap up McCracken|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7002640/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=23 June 2011|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130720183606/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7002640/|archive-date=20 July 2013|url-status=dead}} McCracken revealed that his poor debut performance led to him and Andy Scott having a fallen out.{{cite web|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/david-mccracken-on-how-being-snubbed-1109979|title=David McCracken on how being snubbed by two-faced boss brought him to St Johnstone|website=Daily Record|date=21 August 2011|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201025235/https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/david-mccracken-on-how-being-snubbed-1109979|archive-date=1 December 2020|url-status=dead}} He also described his time at Brentord as "not the best time in his career".

After making only two starts for the club, McCracken moved to Bristol Rovers on 18 January 2011 on an initial one-month loan deal.{{cite news|title=Bristol Rovers sign Brentford's David McCracken on loan|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/bristol_rovers/9365652.stm|publisher=BBC Sport|date=18 January 2011|access-date=2 May 2013}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.bristolrovers.co.uk/page/LatestNews/0%2C%2C10328~2269914%2C00.html|title=DEFENDER McCRACKEN JOINS ON LOAN|website=Bristol Rovers F.C.|date=18 January 2011|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110121034404/http://www.bristolrovers.co.uk/page/LatestNews/0,,10328~2269914,00.html|archive-date=21 January 2011|url-status=dead}}

He made his debut for the club, starting the whole game, in a 0–0 draw against Hartlepool United on the same day.{{cite news|title=Bristol Rovers 0–0 Hartlepool United|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_2/9361856.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=18 January 2011|access-date=1 February 2025}} In a follow–up match against Swindon Town, McCracken set up one of the goals, in a 3–1 win.{{cite web|url=http://www.bristolrovers.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10328~53364%2C00.html|title=Bristol Rovers vs Swindon Town|website=Bristol Rovers F.C.|date=22 January 2011|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110312051537/http://www.bristolrovers.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10328~53364,00.html|archive-date=12 March 2011|url-status=dead}} On the last day of the transfer window, his loan spell at Bristol Rovers was extended, until the end of the season.{{cite news|title=McCracken prolongs Pirates stay|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11719/6715131/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=1 February 2011|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130720221734/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11719/6715131/|archive-date=20 July 2013|url-status=dead}} In a match against his former club, Milton Keynes Dons, on 2 February 2011, he suffered a hamstring injury and was substituted in the 19th minute, as the club loss 2–1.{{cite web|url=http://www.bristolrovers.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0%2C%2C10328~53430%2C00.html|title=Bristol Rovers vs Milton Keynes Dons|website=Milton Keynes Dons|date=2 February 2011|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110415172752/http://www.bristolrovers.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10328~53430,00.html|archive-date=15 April 2011|url-status=dead}} After the match, McCracken was out for a month.{{cite news|title=Tell us what you think|url=https://www.guardian-series.co.uk/sport/leytonorient/8843105.tell-us-what-you-think/|website=The Guardian Series|date=11 February 2011|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 19 March 2011, he made his return from injury, coming on as a late substitute, in a 1–0 win against Notts County.{{cite news|title=Notts County 0–1 Bristol Rovers|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_2/9422357.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=19 March 2011|access-date=1 February 2025}} However, in a match against AFC Bournemouth on 25 April 2011, McCracken then received a red card for a professional foul after elbowing Adam Smith in a 2–1 loss, in what turns out to be his appearance for Bristol Rovers.{{cite news|title=Bournemouth 2–1 Bristol R|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/13112033|publisher=BBC Sport|date=24 April 2011|access-date=2 May 2013}} At the end of the 2010–11 season, he made ten appearances in all competitions.

On 23 June 2011 McCracken signed a two-year contract with St Johnstone, a few days after he was released by the club.{{cite news|title=DEFENSIVE OPTIONS INCREASED AS MCCRACKEN JOINS SAINTS|url=http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/newsitemsdetail.php?param=1544|publisher=Perth St.Johnstone|date=23 June 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111004204020/http://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/newsitemsdetail.php?param=1544|archive-date=4 October 2011}} Teammate Peter Enckelman praised manager Derek McInnes for signing McCracken and Frazer Wright after losing Michael Duberry on a free transfer, where he returned to England.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone No1 Peter Enckelman hoping to continue away day shutouts with clean sheet at Motherwell|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone-no1-peter-enckelman-1082021|work=Daily Record|date=17 September 2011|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20140426192620/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone-no1-peter-enckelman-1082021|archive-date=26 April 2014|url-status=live}}

After missing the first two league matches of the season, he made finally made his debut for the Saints, in a 1–0 loss against Dunfermline Athletic on 13 August 2011.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/14429576.stm|title=St Johnstone 0–1 Dunfermline Athletic|website=BBC Sport|date=13 August 2011|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110825044532/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/14429576.stm|archive-date=25 August 2011|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 0 Dunfermline 1: New faces but familiar story as McInnes struggles for firepower|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13034608.st-johnstone-0-dunfermline-1-new-faces-familiar-story-mcinnes-struggles-firepower/|website=The Herald Scotlaand|date=25 August 2011|access-date=1 February 2025}} In a follow–up match against Celtic, McCracken was part of the squad when he helped the club beat them 1–0 at Celtic Park, giving them their first win since 1998.{{cite news|title=Celtic v St Johnstone: Defender McCracken ready for Hoops strikers|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/90559/celtic-v-st-johnstone-defender-mccracken-ready-for-hoops-strikers/|website=The Courier|date=20 August 2011|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic 0– 1 St Johnstone|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/14520317.stm|publisher=BBC|work=BBC Sport|date=21 August 2011|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110825044513/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/scot_prem/14520317.stm|archive-date=25 August 2011|url-status=dead}} However, he missed one match, due to an injury.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone v St Mirren: Frazer Wright looks to Hampden|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/91519/st-johnstone-v-st-mirren-frazer-wright-looks-to-hampden/|website=The Courier|date=20 September 2011|access-date=1 February 2025}} But McCracken made his return from injury, coming on as a 20th-minute substitute for the injured Frazer Wright, in a 2–0 loss against St Mirren in the last 16 of the Scottish League Cup.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 0 St Mirren 2: Perth men fall well short|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/131483/st-johnstone-0-st-mirren-2-perth-men-fall-well-short/|website=The Courier|date=21 September 2011|access-date=1 February 2025}} However, his return was short–lived when he suffered a hamstring injury that saw him out for two months.{{cite news|title=Steven Anderson joins St Johnstone's 200 Club|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/91965/steven-anderson-joins-st-johnstones-200-club/|website=The Courier|date=4 October 2011|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 3 December 2012 McCracken returned from injury, coming on as a 11th-minute substitute for the injured Wright again, in a 2–1 win against Hearts.{{cite news|title=Hearts 1 St Johnstone 2: Saints closing in on Motherwell after impressive away win|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/144340/hearts-1-st-johnstone-2-saints-closing-in-on-motherwell-after-impressive-away-win/|website=The Courier|date=5 December 2011|access-date=1 February 2025}} Following his return from injury, he soon won his first team place back, with his playing time increased at St Johnstone throughout the season.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone defender must rise to the challenge starting against Dundee FC|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/107724/st-johnstone-defender-must-rise-to-the-challenge-starting-against-dundee-fc/|website=The Courier|date=13 July 2011|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Moon signs new deal and thinks sky's now the limit|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13043543.moon-signs-new-deal-thinks-skys-now-limit/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=28 December 2011|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Stingy Saints still kings of the road|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13052354.stingy-saints-still-kings-road/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=29 March 2012|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 17 March 2012, McCracken scored his first goal for the Saints, in a 3–0 win over St Mirren.{{cite news|title=St Mirren 0 St Johnstone 3: No place like away from home for Perth high-flyers|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13050949.st-mirren-0-st-johnstone-3-no-place-like-away-home-perth-high-flyers/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=18 March 2012|access-date=1 February 2025}} His contributions saw the Saints qualify for a place in Europe despite finishing sixth place.{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17288116|title=Premier League and Football League: Ups and downs|website=BBC Sport|date=27 May 2012|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120614132042/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17288116|archive-date=14 June 2012|url-status=dead}} At the end of the 2011–12 season, he made thirty–two appearances and scoring once in all competitions.

At the start of the 2012–13 season, McCracken played in both legs of the UEFA Europa League second qualifying round against Turkish side Eskişehirspor, as St Johnstone went on to lose 4–1 on aggregate and was eliminated in the tournament.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18893718|title=Eskisehirspor 2–0 St Johnstone|website=BBC Sport|date=19 July 2012|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120722023433/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18893718|archive-date=22 July 2012|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Europa League: St Johnstone 1–1 Eskisehirspor (agg 1–3)|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18897674|publisher=BBC Sport|date=25 July 2012|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120728014138/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18897674|archive-date=28 July 2012|url-status=dead}} However, he soon found himself out of the starting eleven, due to competitions and his own illness.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone boss Steve Lomas: Illness among players is leaving me a worried man|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/st-johnstone-boss-steve-lomas-1325002|work=Daily Record|date=15 September 2012|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140426192705/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/st-johnstone-boss-steve-lomas-1325002|archive-date=26 April 2014|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone v Kilmarnock: Pawlett ready to fight for place in winning Saints team|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/96283/st-johnstone-v-kilmarnock-pawlett-ready-to-fight-for-place-in-winning-saints-team/|website=The Courier|date=19 October 2012|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Steve Lomas to take high-flying Saints north to Inverness in search of club record|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/96349/steve-lomas-to-take-high-flying-saints-north-to-inverness-in-search-of-club-record|website=The Courier|date=23 October 2012|access-date=1 February 2025}} In a match against Celtic on 11 November 2012, however, McCracken fractured his cheek bone after clashing with Victor Wanyama and was substituted in the 9th minute, as the match ended in a 1–1 draw.{{cite news|title=Celtic 1 St Johnstone 1: Hoops suffer the Barcelona blues|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/news/13242855.celtic-1-st-johnstone-1-hoops-suffer-the-barcelona-blues/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=11 November 2012|access-date=1 February 2025}} Following a further diagnosis of the injury, it announced that he would miss up to six weeks and might require surgery.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone defender David McCracken has suffered a fractured a cheek bone|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/8245968/|publisher=Sky Sports|date=14 November 2012|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130707062713/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/8245968/|archive-date=7 July 2013|url-status=dead}} On 15 December 2012 McCracken returned to the starting line–up, in a 2–2 draw against Hearts.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2 – 2 Hearts|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20650176|publisher=BBC Sport|date=15 December 2012|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20121216180656/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/20650176|archive-date=16 December 2012|url-status=dead}} In a follow–up match, he scored his first goal of the season, in a 3–0 win over Cowdenbeath in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup to advance to the next round.{{cite news|title=Cowdenbeath Cup tie with St Johnstone set to be played at fifth time of asking|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cowdenbeath-cup-tie-with-st-johnstone-1493642|work=Daily Record|date=17 December 2012|access-date=2 May 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140426192643/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cowdenbeath-cup-tie-with-st-johnstone-1493642|archive-date=26 April 2014|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Cowdenbeath 0 St Johnstone 3: Perth side ease through delayed tie to set up St Mirren meeting|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13085238.cowdenbeath-0-st-johnstone-3-perth-side-ease-delayed-tie-set-st-mirren-meeting/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=18 November 2012|access-date=1 February 2025}} His return was short–lived, due to his recovery on his cheek bone and missed one match as a result.{{cite news|title=Aberdeen v St Johnstone: Wright happy to pull rank to avoid earache from boss|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/82602/aberdeen-v-st-johnstone-wright-happy-to-pull-rank-to-avoid-earache-from-boss/|website=The Courier|date=21 December 2012|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 26 December 2012, McCracken made his return from injury, in a 1–1 draw against his former club, Dundee United.{{cite web|url=https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/2343|title=DERBY DAY ENDS IN DRAW|website=St. Johnstone F.C.|date=26 July 2016|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241124134122/https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/2343|archive-date=24 November 2024|url-status=live}} Following his return from injury, he regained his first team place for the twelve matches.{{cite news|title=St Mirren 2 St Johnstone 0: Perth Saints left to ponder what might have been|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/80540/st-mirren-2-st-johnstone-0-perth-saints-left-to-ponder-what-might-have-been/|website=The Courier|date=4 February 2013|access-date=1 February 2025}} In a match against Kilmarnock on 9 March 2013, McCracken set up a goal for Murray Davidson to score the opener, in a 2–0 win, in what turns out to be his last appearance for the Saints.{{cite news|title=St Johnstone 2 Kilmarnock 0: Tade's goal had particular poignancy|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/118303/st-johnstone-2-kilmarnock-0-tades-goal-had-particular-poignancy/|website=The Courier|date=9 March 2013|access-date=1 February 2025}} However, he did not play again, due to illness and his own injury concern.{{cite news|title=Inverness v St Johnstone: Steve Lomas hails rival boss Terry Butcher as miraculous|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/76233/inverness-v-st-johnstone-steve-lomas-hails-rival-boss-terry-butcher-as-miraculous/|website=The Courier|date=4 April 2013|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Celtic v St Johnstone: Some 'holiday heads' would help Saints book their own European break|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/78456/celtic-v-st-johnstone-some-holiday-heads-would-help-saints-book-their-own-european-break/|website=The Courier|date=11 May 2013|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=St Johnstone will not renege on Richie Brittain contract|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/st-johnstone/80439/st-johnstone-will-not-renege-on-richie-brittain-contract/|website=The Courier|date=14 May 2013|access-date=1 February 2025}} At the end of the 2012–13 season, McCracken made twenty–two appearances and scoring once in all competitions.

Following this, McCracken left the club after having his contract withdraw, but believes the club would have a change of heart and the main reason of his contract offer withdraw was his recurring of injuries.{{cite news|title=SPL: David McCracken unsure of St Johnstone future after contract offer withdrawn|url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/12040/8799643/SPL-David-McCracken-unsure-of-St-Johnstone-future-after-contract-offer-withdrawn|publisher=Sky Sports|date=30 June 2013|access-date=1 July 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140301190933/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/12040/8799643/SPL-David-McCracken-unsure-of-St-Johnstone-future-after-contract-offer-withdrawn|archive-date=1 March 2014|url-status=dead}} He reflected on the experience, saying it left him "vulnerable" and "scared."{{cite news|title=Scottish Cup Final win would repay my career debt to Falkirk, says Bairns skipper David McCracken|url=https://www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/sport/other_football/13309079.scottish-cup-final-win-would-repay-my-career-debt-to-falkirk-says-bairns-skipper-david-mccracken/|website=The Glasgow Times|date=29 May 2015|access-date=1 February 2025}}

Following his departure from St Johnstone, McCracken joined Falkirk on a one-year contract.{{cite news|title=Falkirk add McCracken|url=http://spfl.co.uk/news/article/falkirk-add-mccracken/|publisher=Scottish Professional Football League Official Website|date=16 August 2013|access-date=19 August 2013|archive-date=16 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140116134043/http://spfl.co.uk/news/article/falkirk-add-mccracken/|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=McCracken joins Bairns|url=http://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/mccracken-joins-bairns/|publisher=Falkirk Official Website|date=16 August 2013|access-date=19 August 2013|archive-date=7 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207123841/http://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/mccracken-joins-bairns/|url-status=dead}}

After a brief struggle with an injury at the beginning of the season, he made his debut for the Bairns, coming on as a 60th-minute substitute, in a 3–1 win against Dundee on 21 September 2013.{{cite web|url=https://spfl.co.uk/news/mccracken-gets-full-training-in|title=McCracken gets full training in|website=Scottish Professional Football League Official Website|date=12 September 2013|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20250129182611/https://spfl.co.uk/news/mccracken-gets-full-training-in|archive-date=29 January 2025|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24169923|title=Falkirk 3–1 Dundee|website=BBC Sport|date=21 September 2013|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130925080455/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24169923|archive-date=25 September 2013|url-status=dead}} After missing one match with an injury, McCracken made his return to the starting line–up, in a 2–0 loss against Hamilton Academical on 26 October 2013.{{cite web|url=http://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/blog/dumbarton-2-falkirk-1/|title=DUMBARTON 2 FALKIRK 1|website=Falkirk F.C.|date=19 October 2013|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140226221511/http://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/blog/dumbarton-2-falkirk-1/|archive-date=26 February 2014|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24591416|title=Hamilton Academical 2–0 Falkirk|website=BBC Sport|date=26 October 2013|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131027155623/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24591416|archive-date=27 October 2013|url-status=dead}} In the fifth round of the Scottish Cup against Rangers on 30 November 2013, however, he received a straight red card in the 57th minute for a foul on Nicky Clark, in a 2–0 loss.{{cite news|title=Falkirk 0 Rangers 2: Gers leave it late but scrape through|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/default_content/13134226.falkirk-0-rangers-2-gers-leave-late-scrape/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=30 November 2013|access-date=1 February 2025}} McCracken helped Falkirk keep four consecutive clean sheets in the league between 21 December 2013 and 11 January 2014.{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25377383|title=Greenock Morton 1–2 Falkirk|website=BBC Sport|date=21 December 2013|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131222093658/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/2537738|archive-date=22 December 2013|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25475022|title=Falkirk 0–0 Alloa Athletic|website=BBC Sport|date=28 December 2013|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131229114950/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25475022|archive-date=29 December 2013|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25533068|title=Livingston 0–1 Falkirk|website=BBC Sport|date=5 January 2014|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140105032653/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25533068|archive-date=5 January 2014|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25600732|title=Falkirk 0–0 Hamilton Academical|website=BBC Sport|date=11 January 2014|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140112211522/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25600732|archive-date=12 January 2014|url-status=dead}} After not playing for four weeks due to an injury, he made his return to the starting line–up, in a 2–1 loss against Dumbarton on 15 February 2014.{{cite web|url=http://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/blog/dumbarton-2-falkirk-1/|title=DUMBARTON 2 FALKIRK 1|website=Falkirk F.C.|date=15 February 2014|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140226221511/http://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/blog/dumbarton-2-falkirk-1/|archive-date=26 February 2014|url-status=dead}} On 1 March 2014, he scored his first goal for the Bairns, in a 4–2 win against Raith Rovers.{{cite news|title=Raith Rovers 2 Falkirk 4: Striker says Rovers are 'causing their own problems'|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/250882/raith-rovers-2-falkirk-4-striker-says-rovers-are-causing-their-own-problems/|website=The Courier|date=1 March 2014|access-date=1 February 2025}} Three weeks later, on 22 March 2014, McCracken scored his second goal for Falkirk, in a 2–0 win against Dumbarton.{{cite news|title=Falkirk 2 Dumbarton 0|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13152415.falkirk-2-dumbarton-0/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=22 March 2014|access-date=1 February 2025}} This was followed up by keeping two clean sheets for Falkirk.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/26695420|title=Dundee 0–1 Falkirk|website=BBC Sport|date=29 March 2014|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140330144753/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/26695420|archive-date=30 March 2014|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/26797580|title=Falkirk 5–0 Cowdenbeath|website=BBC Sport|date=5 April 2014|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140410235924/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/26797580|archive-date=10 April 2014|url-status=dead}} On 1 May 2014, he agreed a new one-year contract with the Bairns, keeping him until 2015.{{cite web|title=TRIO PLEDGE FUTURES TO BAIRNS|url=http://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/blog/trio-pledge-futures-to-bairns/|publisher=Falkirk F.C.|date=2 May 2014|access-date=25 September 2014|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20140502234311/http://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/blog/trio-pledge-futures-to-bairns/|archive-date=2 May 2014|url-status=dead}} He played in both legs of the Premiership play-offs quarter–finals against Queen of the South, Falkirk won 4–3 on aggregate to advance to the next round.{{cite news|title=Queen of the South 2 Falkirk 1: On-loan striker finds his mark to leave Queens reigning on the opening night of the play-offs|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13159277.queen-south-2-falkirk-1-on-loan-striker-finds-mark-leave-queens-reigning-opening-night-play-offs/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=7 May 2014|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Falkirk 3 Queen of the South 1 (after extra-time): All roads lead to Hamilton as Holt's hot rods find a fifth gear|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13159863.falkirk-3-queen-south-1-extra-time-roads-lead-hamilton-holts-hot-rods-find-fifth-gear/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=11 May 2014|access-date=1 February 2025}} After missing the first leg of the Premiership play-offs semi–finals against Hamilton Academical due to injury, McCracken returned to the return leg, where the Bairns loss 1–0.{{cite news|title=Hamilton beat Falkirk: Accies set to face Hibs in Premiership play-off final|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13161066.hamilton-beat-falkirk-accies-set-face-hibs-premiership-play-off-final/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=18 May 2014|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Hamilton 1 Falkirk 0: Accies have momentum and purpose to make Hibs worry|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13161139.hamilton-1-falkirk-0-accies-momentum-purpose-make-hibs-worry/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=19 May 2014|access-date=1 February 2025}} At the end of the 2013–14 season, he made twenty–nine appearances and scoring two times in all competitions.

Ahead of the 2014–15 season, McCracken was given the captaincy and continued to establish himself in the Falkirk side.{{cite news|title=Falkirk v Dumbarton: David McCracken believes on-loan hitman Chris Kane can star|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/falkirk-v-dumbarton-david-mccracken-4292395|website=Daily Record|date=20 September 2014|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Five-minute guide to the William Hill Scottish Cup final|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13217806.five-minute-guide-william-hill-scottish-cup-final/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=30 May 2015|access-date=1 February 2025}}{{cite news|title=Falkirk 0 Hibs 3: Time to prioritise substance over style as big match planning gets started|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13212338.falkirk-0-hibs-3-time-prioritise-substance-style-big-match-planning-gets-started/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=4 May 2015|access-date=1 February 2025}} He then scored his first goal of the season, in a 6–0 win against Cowdenbeath on 26 October 2014.{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29670926|title=Falkirk 6–0 Cowdenbeath|website=BBC Sport|date=26 October 2014|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141029065305/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/29670926|archive-date=29 October 2014|url-status=dead}} McCracken then scored a strike in the last minute of the game, in a 1–0 win against Hibernian on 6 December 2014.{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/30257303|title=Falkirk 1–0 Hibernian|website=BBC Sport|date=6 December 2014|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150326045856/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/30257303|archive-date=26 March 2015|url-status=dead}} This was followed up by keeping two clean sheets for Falkirk.{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co,uk/sport/0/football/30357788|title=Livingston 0–1 Falkirk|website=BBC Sport|date=13 December 2014|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200618052929/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/30357788|archive-date=18 June 2020|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/30459949|title=Dumbarton 0–3 Falkirk|website=BBC Sport|date=20 December 2014|access-date=2 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20211212125107/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/30459949|archive-date=12 December 2021|url-status=live}} He scored two goals in two matches between 7 February 2015 and 14 February 2015 against Brechin City and Raith Rovers.{{cite news|title=Falkirk 2 Brechin 1: City beaten but unbowed|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/127494/falkirk-2-brechin-1-city-beaten-but-unbowed/|website=The Courier|date=9 February 2015|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Raith Rovers 2 Falkirk 2: Callachan's goal wait is finally over|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/128380/raith-rovers-2-falkirk-2-callachans-goal-wait-is-finally-over/|website=The Courier|date=16 February 2015|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 31 March 2015, McCracken scored his fifth goal of the season, in a 1–0 win against Cowdenbeath.{{cite news|title=Falkirk 1 Cowdenbeath 0: No happy homecoming for Nicholl|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/249113/falkirk-1-cowdenbeath-0-no-happy-homecoming-for-nicholl/|website=The Courier|date=1 April 2015|access-date=1 February 2025}} He then helped the Bairns reach the Scottish Cup Final after the Bairns beat Hibernian on 18 April 2015.{{cite news|title=Hibs 0 Falkirk 1: Sibbald goal books Falkirk spot in Scottish Cup final|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13210310.hibs-0-falkirk-1-sibbald-goal-books-falkirk-spot-scottish-cup-final/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=18 April 2015|access-date=1 February 2025}} For his performance, McCracken signed a one–year contract extension with Falkirk for another season.{{cite news|title=McCracken wants to cap contract extension with a cup-winners medal|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13214213.mccracken-wants-cap-contract-extension-cup-winners-medal/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=17 May 2015|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/falkirk-fc/falkirk-captain-david-mccracken-appeals-to-teammates-let-s-stick-together-1-3792507|title=Falkirk captain David McCracken appeals to teammates: Let's stick together|website=The Falkirk Herald|date=4 June 2015|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150611070804/http://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/falkirk-fc/falkirk-captain-david-mccracken-appeals-to-teammates-let-s-stick-together-1-3792507|archive-date=11 June 2015|url-status=dead}} In the final, he started the match against Inverness Caledonian Thistle, but made a mistake in the build-up to the late goal from James Vincent that saw the Bairns loss 2–1.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/32728510|title=Inverness CT 2–1 Falkirk|access-date=1 February 2025|date=23 June 2015|publisher=BBC Sport|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20150531194308/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/32728510|archive-date=31 May 2015|url-status=dead}} After the match, manager Peter Houston said that McCracken was in tears for letting in the late goal.{{cite news|title=Hughes: My players were out on their feet. Falkirk would have won if we'd gone to extra time|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/13217911.hughes-players-feet-falkirk-won-gone-extra-time/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=31 May 2015|access-date=1 February 2025}} At the end of the 2014–15 season, he made forty–one appearances and scoring five times in all competitions.

At the start of the 2015–16 season, McCracken found himself placed on the substitute bench despite being fit.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/teamsheet-latest-team-news-scottish-6217080|title=Teamsheet: Latest team news from the Scottish Premiership, Championship, Leagues One and Two|website=Daily Record|date=12 August 2015|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160403112144/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/teamsheet-latest-team-news-scottish-6217080|archive-date=3 April 2016|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/listen-bad-news-bairns-peter-grant-out-season-1269476|title=LISTEN: Bad News Bairns - Peter Grant is out for the season|website=Falkirk Herald|date=10 February 2016|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220809101814/https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/listen-bad-news-bairns-peter-grant-out-season-1269476|archive-date=9 August 2022|url-status=live}} He made his first appearance of the season, starting the whole game as captain, in a 5–3 win against Peterhead in the last 16 of the Scottish Challenge Cup.{{cite news|title=Falkirk 3 Peterhead 5: Plumber McAllister throws spanner in the works for Bairns|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/13611714.falkirk-3-peterhead-5-plumber-mcallister-throws-spanner-in-the-works-for-bairns/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=19 August 2015|access-date=1 February 2025}} In the second half of the season, McCracken soon won his first team place, as well as, retaining his captaincy.{{cite news|title=Old man Kerr reckons Bairns have mental maturity to cope with play-off pressure|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14462982.old-man-kerr-reckons-bairns-mental-maturity-cope-play-off-pressure/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=29 April 2016|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 15 February 2016 he scored his first goal of the season in a 2–2 draw against Raith Rovers.{{cite news|title=Falkirk 2 Raith Rovers 2: Raith battle to save point|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/sport/football/243273/falkirk-2-raith-rovers-2-raith-battle-to-save-point/|website=The Courier|date=15 February 2016|access-date=1 February 2025}} In a match against Hibernian on 12 April 2016, McCracken scored his second goal of the season, having earlier made two mistakes that led to goals, in a 2–2 draw.{{cite news|title=Hibernian 2 Falkirk 2: Late Falkirk rally stuns hosts in Easter Road cracker|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14422346.hibernian-2-falkirk-2-late-falkirk-rally-stuns-hosts-easter-road-cracker/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=12 April 2016|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Falkirk late show ensures Hibernian's Fyvie has to eat his words|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14425174.falkirk-late-show-ensures-hibernians-fyvie-eat-words/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=13 April 2016|access-date=1 February 2025}} He captained in both legs in the Premiership play-offs semi–finals against Hibernian, as Falkirk won 5–4 on aggregate.{{cite news|title=Hibs 2 Falkirk 2: Draw leaves play-off final place up for grabs|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/170536/draw-leaves-play-off-final-place-up-for-grabs/|website=The Courier|date=10 May 2016|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Falkirk 3 Hibs 2 (agg. 5-4): McHugh on cue for more Hibs misery|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/172898/falkirk-3-hibs-2-agg-5-4-mchugh-cue-hibs-misery/|website=The Courier|date=14 May 2016|access-date=1 February 2025}} McCracken captained both legs in the Premiership play-offs final against Kilmarnock, as the Bairns loss 4–1 on aggregate.{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/36294231|title=Falkirk 1–0 Kilmarnock|website=BBC Sport|date=19 May 2016|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160521113259/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/36294231|archive-date=21 May 2016|url-status=dead}}
{{cite news|title=Time eventually runs out on Falkirk as Kilmarnock rise from the ashes|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/14509414.time-eventually-runs-falkirk-kilmarnock-rise-ashes/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=22 May 2016|access-date=1 February 2025}} At the end of the 2015–16 season, he made twenty–six appearances and scoring two times in all competitions. For his performance, McCracken signed a contract extension with Falkirk.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-transfer-news/transfer-news-live-latest-rumours-8113715|title=Transfer News RECAP: The latest rumours and done deals on Saturday June 4|website=Daily Record|date=4 June 2016|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160711182750/http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk:80/sport/football/football-transfer-news/transfer-news-live-latest-rumours-8113715|archive-date=11 July 2016|url-status=live}}

In the first half of the 2016–17 season, McCracken regained his first team place, as well as, retaining his captaincy.{{cite news|title=Raith Rovers 0 Falkirk 2 : Bairns are moving on up|url=https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/raith-rovers-0-falkirk-2-bairns-are-moving-on-up-1202333|website=The Falkirk Herald|date=10 September 2016|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Ayr 0 Falkirk 1 : Ayr wetter, Bairns better|url=https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/ayr-0-falkirk-1-ayr-wetter-bairns-better-1178866|website=The Falkirk Herald|date=19 November 2016|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/dumbarton-2-falkirk-1-bairns-beaten-1170196|title=Dumbarton 2 Falkirk 1: Bairns beaten|website=The Falkirk Herald|date=17 December 2016|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210729114922/https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/dumbarton-2-falkirk-1-bairns-beaten-1170196|archive-date=29 July 2021|url-status=live}} He then scored his first goal of the season, in a 1–0 win against Elgin City in the third round of the Scottish Challenge Cup.{{cite news|title=Elgin "embarrassed" by heavy Falkirk defeat|url=https://www.northern-scot.co.uk/sport/elgin-embarrassed-by-heavy-falkirk-defeat-147676/|website=The Northern Scot|date=3 September 2016|access-date=1 February 2025}} However, McCracken suffered a back spasm that saw him out for the rest of the 2016–17 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/defender-delighted-to-get-nod-and-star-in-front-of-dad-1145213|title=Defender delighted to get nod and star in front of Dad|website=The Falkirk Herald|date=9 March 2017|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240724161050/https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/defender-delighted-to-get-nod-and-star-in-front-of-dad-1145213|archive-date=24 July 2024|url-status=live}} At the end of the 2016–17 season, he made eighteen appearances and scoring once in all competitions. Following this, McCracken was released by Falkirk.{{cite web|url=http://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/end-of-season-update/|title=End of season update|publisher=Falkirk F.C.|date=22 May 2017|access-date=22 May 2017|archive-date=25 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525230507/http://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/end-of-season-update/|url-status=dead}}

On 2 July 2017, McCracken signed for Peterhead.{{cite web|url=http://spfl.co.uk/news/article/mccracken-moves-to-peterhead/|title=McCracken moves to Peterhead |publisher=Scottish Professional Football League Official Website|date=3 July 2017|access-date=3 July 2017|archive-date=6 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170706105515/http://spfl.co.uk/news/article/mccracken-moves-to-peterhead|url-status=dead}}

He made his debut for the club as captain, starting the whole game, in a 1–0 win against East Fife in the Scottish League Cup.{{cite web|url=http://www.peterheadfc.com/matches/item/1841-peterhead-off-to-a-winning-start-in-betfred-cup|title=Winning start for Blue Toon in Betfred Cup|website=Peterhead F.C.|date=15 July 2017|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170716004750/http://www.peterheadfc.com/matches/item/1841-peterhead-off-to-a-winning-start-in-betfred-cup|archive-date=16 July 2017|url-status=dead}} McCracken then scored his first goal for East Fife, in a 3–0 win against Elgin City in the Scottish League Cup, followed up by scoring in a 2–1 win against Annan Athletic in the opening game of the season.{{cite web|url=http://www.peterheadfc.com/matches/item/1854-fine-win-at-elgin-but-blue-toon-set-to-come-up-just-short|title=Fine win at Elgin but Blue Toon set to come up just short|website=Peterhead F.C.|date=29 July 2017|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729234926/http://www.peterheadfc.com/matches/item/1854-fine-win-at-elgin-but-blue-toon-set-to-come-up-just-short|archive-date=29 July 2017|url-status=dead}}
{{cite web|url=http://www.peterheadfc.com/matches/item/1884-late-late-show-from-blue-toon-stuns-annan|title=Late late show from Blue Toon stuns Annan|website=Peterhead F.C.|date=5 August 2017|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170805215212/http://www.peterheadfc.com/matches/item/1884-late-late-show-from-blue-toon-stuns-annan|archive-date=5 August 2017|url-status=dead}} However, he suffered an injury that saw him out for four matches.{{cite news|title=No hard feelings from Peterhead manager after missing out on former Dundee United captain Sean Dillon|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/1322604/no-hard-feelings-peterhead-manager-missing-former-dundee-united-captain-sean-dillon/|website=Press and Journal|date=9 September 2017|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 30 September 2017 McCracken returned from injury, coming on as 74th-minute substitute in a 2–0 loss against Berwick Rangers.{{cite web|url=http://www.peterheadfc.com/matches/item/1958-blue-toon-suffer-berwick-beating-at-balmoor|title=Blue Toon suffer Berwick beating at Balmoor|website=Peterhead F.C.|date=30 September 2017|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170930203255/http://www.peterheadfc.com/matches/item/1958-blue-toon-suffer-berwick-beating-at-balmoor|archive-date=30 September 2017|url-status=dead}} Following his return from injury, he regained his first team place, playing in the centre–back position despite facing injuries along the way.{{cite news|title=East Fife boss Darren Young expected to make changes|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/490322/east-fife-boss-darren-young-expected-make-changes/|website=The Courier|date=15 August 2017|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Peterhead manager Jim McInally hoping to halt in-form Elgin City|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/1352488/peterhead-manager-jim-mcinally-hoping-halt-form-elgin-city/|website=Press and Journal|date=4 November 2017|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Peterhead close in on French-Algerian striker Karim Belmokhtar|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/football/peterhead-fc/1422637/blue-toon-close-in-on-balmokhtar/|website=Press and Journal|date=26 February 2018|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Jamie Stevenson insists Peterhead are determined to stay at the top of League Two|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/football/peterhead-fc/1432490/stevensons-rocket/|website=Press and Journal|date=17 March 2018|access-date=1 February 2025}} McCracken said his aim was to help Peterhead reach promotion to Scottish League One.{{cite news|title=McCracken eager to regain top spot with Blue Toon in League 2|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/football/peterhead-fc/1376156/mccracken-eager-regain-top-spot-blue-toon-league-2/|website=Press and Journal|date=16 December 2017|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=David McCracken wants Peterhead to experience unforgettable promotion feeling|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/football/peterhead-fc/1399223/david-mccracken-wants-peterhead-experience-unforgettable-promotion-feeling/|website=Press and Journal|date=27 January 2018|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=McCracken calls for concentration in Peterhead's title push|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/football/peterhead-fc/1444871/mccracken-calls-for-concentration-in-peterheads-title-push/|website=Press and Journal|date=31 March 2018|access-date=1 February 2025}} He then scored his third goal for the club, in a 3–2 win against Berwick Rangers on 30 January 2018.{{cite web|url=https://www.peterheadfc.com/matches/item/2143-blue-toon-overcome-berwick-to-home-in-on-top-spot|title=Blue Toon overcome Berwick to home in on top spot|website=Peterhead F.C.|date=30 January 2018|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180131001939/https://www.peterheadfc.com/matches/item/2143-blue-toon-overcome-berwick-to-home-in-on-top-spot|archive-date=31 January 2018|url-status=dead}} In the semi–finals of the first leg play–offs against Stirling Albion, McCracken suffered a calf injury and was substituted in the 50th minute, as the club won 1–0.{{cite news|title=Robertson out to secure a final say for Peterhead|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/football/peterhead-fc/1468189/robertson-out-to-secure-a-final-say-for-peterhead/|website=Press and Journal|date=4 May 2018|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Jim McInally rallies injury-hit Peterhead squad for final push at League 1 promotion|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/sport/1473203/jim-mcinally-rallies-injury-hit-peterhead-squad-for-final-push-at-league-1-promotion/|website=Press and Journal|date=12 May 2018|access-date=1 February 2025}} After missing one match, he returned to the starting line–up, in a 2–0 loss against Stenhousemuir in the first leg of the play–offs final.{{cite news|title=Nine man Blue Toon fall short in play-off final|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/football/peterhead-fc/1474020/10-man-blue-toon-fall-short-in-play-off-final/|website=Press and Journal|date=12 May 2018|access-date=1 February 2025}} However, in what turns out to be his last professional football match, McCracken received a red card for a second bookable, as Peterhead was unable to overturn the deficit in a 2–1 loss on aggregate despite winning the match.{{cite news|title=Peterhead earn pride but no promotion as they fall short at the final hurdle|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/football/peterhead-fc/1474553/peterhead-earn-pride-but-no-promotion-as-they-fell-short-at-the-final-hurdle/|website=Press and Journal|date=14 May 2018|access-date=1 February 2025}} At the end of the 2017–18 season, he made forty appearances and scoring three times in all competitions.

However, McCracken made no appearances throughout the 2018–19 season and focused on coaching at Peterhead.{{cite news|title=Defender Cameron Eadie picks out high spot of Peterhead's opening cup victory|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/football/peterhead-fc/1521696/defender-cameron-eadie-picks-out-high-spot-of-peterheads-opening-cup-victory/|website=Press and Journal|date=16 July 2018|access-date=1 February 2025}}{{cite news|url=https://www.eveningexpress.co.uk/fp/sport/football/scottish-football/mccracken-grateful-to-get-coaching-chance/|title=McCracken grateful to get Peterhead coaching chance|first=Callum|last=Law|date=1 July 2019|access-date=19 November 2019|newspaper=Aberdeen Evening Express|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20190702143614/https://www.eveningexpress.co.uk/fp/sport/football/scottish-football/mccracken-grateful-to-get-coaching-chance/|archive-date=2 July 2019|url-status=dead}} By this point, he retired from professional football.{{cite web|url=https://www.eveningexpress.co.uk/fp/sport/football/scottish-football/mccracken-coaching-career-ahead-for-ex-blue-toon-stopper/|title=McCracken coaching career ahead for ex-Peterhead stopper as he renews Balmoor commitment|first=Callum|last=Law|date=12 June 2019|access-date=1 February 2025|newspaper=Aberdeen Evening Express|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20190612131802/https://www.eveningexpress.co.uk/fp/sport/football/scottish-football/mccracken-coaching-career-ahead-for-ex-blue-toon-stopper/|archive-date=12 June 2019|url-status=dead}}

In October 2001, McCracken was called up to the Scotland U21 squad for the first time.{{cite web|url=https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/669/McCRACKEN-GETS-SCOTLAND-UNDER-21-CALL-UP.html|title=McCRACKEN GETS SCOTLAND UNDER-21 CALL UP|website=Dundee United F.C.|date=2 October 2001|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20250124164631/https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/669/McCRACKEN-GETS-SCOTLAND-UNDER-21-CALL-UP.html|archive-date=24 January 2025|url-status=live}} He made his debut for the under-21 side, starting the whole game, in a 1–0 win over Latvia on 5 October 2001.{{cite news|title=Late goal gives Scots victory|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/world_cup_2002/1582245.stm|website=BBC Sport|date=5 October 2001|access-date=1 February 2025}} Two years later, McCracken was called up to the Scotland U21 squad and was featured as an unused substitute twice.{{cite news|title=Under-21s hold their heads high after draw|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/11984898.under-21s-hold-their-heads-high-after-draw/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=7 June 2003|access-date=1 February 2025}} He finally made his first appearance for the under-21 side, in a 3–1 loss against Norway U21 on 19 August 2003.{{cite news|title=Brown call is first for Inverness|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12535899.brown-call-is-first-for-inverness/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=15 August 2003|access-date=1 February 2025}} McCracken played in both legs of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualification play-offs against Croatia U21, as Scotland U21 loss 2–1 on aggregate.{{cite news|title=Young Scots still hopeful after Croatia fail to land killer blow Bonhof's under-21s outplayed, but not out of contention|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12528680.young-scots-still-hopeful-after-croatia-fail-to-land-killer-blow-bonhofs-under-21s-outplayed-but-not-out-of-contention/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=17 November 2003|access-date=1 February 2025}}
{{cite news|title=Scotland the brave but luck runs out for Bonhof's men|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12528637.scotland-the-brave-but-luck-runs-out-for-bonhofs-men/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=19 November 2003|access-date=1 February 2025}} He went on to make five appearances for the under-21 side.

During his time with Peterhead, McCracken took on coaching responsibilities.

McCracken left Peterhead in November 2019 to take a coaching position at Falkirk, working with Lee Miller.{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2019/11/19/lee-miller-david-mccracken-appointed-interim-coaching-team/|title=LEE MILLER & DAVID McCRACKEN APPOINTED INTERIM COACHING TEAM|publisher=Falkirk F.C.|date=19 November 2019|access-date=19 November 2019|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020172154/https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2019/11/19/lee-miller-david-mccracken-appointed-interim-coaching-team/|archive-date=20 October 2020|url-status=live}} Their first match as Bairns manager came on 30 November 2019, in a 3–1 win against Stranraer.{{cite news|title=McInally wants Peterhead to make most of chances against Stranraer|url=https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/sport/football/peterhead-fc/1907261/mcinally-wants-peterhead-to-make-most-of-chances-against-stranraer/|website=Press and Journal|date=7 December 2019|access-date=1 February 2025}} After a few games in interim charge of the team, McCracken and Miller were given control until the end of the 2019–20 season.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/50785978|title=Falkirk confirm Lee Miller & David McCracken until end of season|publisher=BBC Sport|date=13 December 2019|access-date=2 January 2020}} They embarked a three match winning streak throughout January that saw them earn January’s Manager of the Month.{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/01/31/ladbrokes-league-one-player-and-manager-of-the-month/ |title=LADBROKE'S LEAGUE ONE PLAYER AND MANAGER OF THE MONTH|website=Falkirk F.C.|date=31 January 2020|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200428053111/https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/01/31/ladbrokes-league-one-player-and-manager-of-the-month/|archive-date=28 April 2020|url-status=live}} However, the season was curtailed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, with Falkirk finishing fourth place.{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/03/13/coronavirus-suspension-of-scottish-football/|title=CORONAVIRUS: SUSPENSION OF SCOTTISH FOOTBALL|website=Falkirk F.C.|date=13 March 2020|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201029154712/https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/03/13/coronavirus-suspension-of-scottish-football/|archive-date=29 October 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/04/15/club-statement-11/|title=CLUB STATEMENT|website=Falkirk F.C.|date=15 April 2020|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027091716/https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/04/15/club-statement-11/|archive-date=27 October 2020|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/07/10/a-letter-from-david-mccracken-and-lee-miller/|title=A LETTER FROM DAVID MCCRACKEN AND LEE MILLER|website=Falkirk F.C.|date=10 July 2020|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806171618/https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/07/10/a-letter-from-david-mccracken-and-lee-miller/|archive-date=6 August 2020|url-status=live}} By then, McCracken and Miller were able to invigorated the place and the team, only losing twice for the Bairns.{{cite news|title=Falkirk FC season in review 2019-20: Missed opportunities|url=https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/falkirk-fc/falkirk-fc-season-in-review-2019-20-missed-opportunities-2855824|website=The Falkirk Herald|date=17 May 2020|access-date=1 February 2025}} On 3 April 2020, Falkirk announced that both managers were among the staff members to be placed on furlough leave.{{cite news|title=Falkirk place most staff on furlough|url=https://www.heraldscotland.com/sport/18355555.falkirk-place-staff-furlough/|website=The Herald Scotland|date=3 April 2020|access-date=1 February 2025}}

At the start of the 2020–21 season, McCracken and Millar made ten signings for Falkirk to build the new squad, as they maintained the Bairns’ unbeaten start in the first eight league matches to the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-business-pretty-much-finished-for-falkirk-says-mccracken-3018981|title=Transfer business "pretty much" finished for Falkirk says McCracken|website=The Falkirk Herald|date=29 October 2020|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20241105191602/https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-business-pretty-much-finished-for-falkirk-says-mccracken-3018981|archive-date=5 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/partick-will-have-a-point-to-prove-says-mccracken-3026386|title=Partick will have a point to prove says McCracken|website=The Falkirk Herald|date=5 November 2020|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20241105191704/https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/partick-will-have-a-point-to-prove-says-mccracken-3026386|archive-date=5 November 2024|url-status=live}}
{{cite news|title=Five memorable mid-season Falkirk signings|url=https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/five-memorable-mid-season-falkirk-signings-3127749|website=The Falkirk Herald|date=11 February 2021|access-date=1 February 2025}} As a result, McCracken and Millar were named November’s Manager of the Month.{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/12/04/lee-miller-and-david-mccracken-win-manager-of-the-month-for-november/|title=LEE MILLER AND DAVID MCCRACKEN WIN MANAGER OF THE MONTH FOR NOVEMBER|website=Falkirk F.C.|date=4 December 2020|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20201204140041/https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2020/12/04/lee-miller-and-david-mccracken-win-manager-of-the-month-for-november/|archive-date=4 December 2020|url-status=live}} They, once again, were named March’s Manager of the Month after going on a three match unbeaten run.{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/falkirk-managers-lee-miller-and-david-mccracken-pick-up-march-manager-of-the-month-awards-3194499|title=Falkirk managers Lee Miller and David McCracken pick up March Manager of the Month awards|website=The Falkirk Herald|date=9 April 2021|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210618001651/https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/falkirk-managers-lee-miller-and-david-mccracken-pick-up-march-manager-of-the-month-awards-3194499|archive-date=18 June 2021|url-status=live}} However, their joy were short–lived when McCracken and Miller were sacked by Falkirk on 21 April 2021.{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2021/04/21/club-statement-22/|title=CLUB STATEMENT|website=Falkirk F.C.|date=21 April 2021|access-date=21 April 2021|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210728173849/https://www.falkirkfc.co.uk/2021/04/21/club-statement-22/|archive-date=28 July 2021|url-status=live}} It came after when the Bairns loss three times, including a 1–0 "embarrassing" defeat against Peterhead.{{cite web|url=https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/mccracken-embarrassed-by-falkirk-performance-in-1-0-defeat-at-peterhead-3208466|title=McCracken embarrassed by Falkirk performance in 1-0 defeat at Peterhead|website=The Falkirk Herald|date=21 April 2021|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625102115/https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/sport/football/mccracken-embarrassed-by-falkirk-performance-in-1-0-defeat-at-peterhead-3208466|archive-date=25 June 2021|url-status=live}}

McCracken is married and together, they have one daughter. Outside of football, he’s a qualified Metafit Instructor.{{cite news|title=Get fit the 'Mairso' way|url=https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/local-sport/get-fit-the-mairso-way-2530855 |website=Daily Record|date=1 July 2013|access-date=1 February 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419073410/https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/local-sport/get-fit-the-mairso-way-2530855|archive-date=19 April 2021|url-status=live}}

After being sacked as a manager of Falkirk, McCracken became a Wellbeing Development Officer with PFA Scotland.{{cite news|title=EXCLUSIVE: The former Dundee United and St Johnstone star sending message to next generation after landing new role|url=https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/sport/football/dundee-united/4349608/david-mccracken-dundee-united-st-johnstone-pfa-scotland/|website=The Courier|date=1 May 2023|access-date=1 February 2025}}

{{notelist}}

{{updated|match played 20 April 2021}}

• initially caretaker. Made permanent on 13 December 2019.
• statistics includes the 3–0 forfeit win over Kilmarnock in the Scottish League Cup on Tuesday 6 October 2020.

Dundee United

• Scottish Cup runner-up: 2004–05

Wycombe Wanderers

• Football League Two third-place promotion: 2008–09

Falkirk

• Scottish Cup runner-up: 2014–15

Individual

• PFA Team of the Year: 2008–09 Football League Two

{{reflist}}

• {{Soccerbase}}

{{2008–09 Football League Two Team of the Year}}

{{2017–18 PFA Scotland Scottish League Two Team of the Year}}

{{Falkirk F.C. managers}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:McCracken, David}}

Category:1981 births

Category:Footballers from Glasgow

Category:Living people

Category:Men's association football defenders

Category:Scottish men's footballers

Category:Scotland men's under-21 international footballers

Category:Dundee United F.C. players

Category:Wycombe Wanderers F.C. players

Category:Milton Keynes Dons F.C. players

Category:Brentford F.C. players

Category:Bristol Rovers F.C. players

Category:St Johnstone F.C. players

Category:Scottish Premier League players

Category:English Football League players

Category:Falkirk F.C. players

Category:Scottish Professional Football League players

Category:Peterhead F.C. players

Category:Falkirk F.C. non-playing staff

Category:Scottish football managers

Category:Scottish Professional Football League managers

Category:Falkirk F.C. managers

Category:21st-century Scottish sportsmen