Sfa Name Candidates For Scotland Job

It looks like the SFA have ruled Craig Levein out of the Scotland job, much to the relief of many Dundee United supporters.

The SFA are hoping to announce the new Scotland boss next week, with Alex McLeish, Gary McAllister and Tommy Burns the favourites for the position.

The odds on Alex McLeish becoming the new International manager was slashed by bookies yesterday, from 5-1 to 7-4 after speculation that the former Rangers man was close to agreeing a deal with the SFA.

Odds on Craig Levein increased from 3-1 to 6-1, following his Dundee United side's humilating 5-0 defeat at Ibrox, their 2nd in 2007 - including a 5-1 loss to Falkirk on New Years day.

Portsmouth coach Joe Jordon was also linked with the job, but he is currently still under contract with the Fratton Park club, which might put the SFA off after the farce surrounding Walter Smith's departure to re-join Rangers.

There have been 47 names linked with the postion, with Scotland Chief Executive David Taylor admitting they have been surprised by the level of interest.

"We've been overwhelmed with the level of interest. Four or five serious candidates have already contacted me directly," said David Taylor.

"Our first task on Monday will be to whittle down the numbers and draw up a shortlist of around half-a-dozen serious contenders. Alex McLeish, Gary McAllister and Tommy Burns will be discussed, among others."

Meanwhile, the SFA have agreed not to take any legal action against former Scotland manager Walter Smith or Ranger, for breach of contract, after they kissed-and-made up.

"I'm still disappointed the SFA opposed me leaving to join Rangers," said Walter Smith.

"Perhaps I should have waited to be sacked and made everyone happy. Obviously, I will have regrets if Scotland qualify for Euro 2008."

"If that happens, it will be a major disappointment not seeing the job through to fruition."

"My main regret is that the offer to return to Rangers came at a time that wouldn't have been of my choosing, but I genuinely hope that whoever gets the job will continue to get results."


The Next Scotland Manager:
7-4, Tommy Burns
5-1, Gary McAllister
6-1, Craig Levein
8-1, Archie Knox
16-1, Billy Davies
20-1, Jim Jefferies
20-1, Jimmy Calderwood
20-1, Kenny Dalglish
25-1, Bruce Rioch
25-1, George Burley
33-1, Graeme Souness
33-1, Richard Gough
40-1, David Moyes
28-1, Joe Jordan
47-1, Paul Sturrock
31-1, Colin Calderwood
26-1, Craig Brown

Click here to see the latest odds on OddChecker