McLeish rules out Scots return

Blues boss has no interest in former job

Last updated: 19th November 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

McLeish rules out Scots return

McLeish: Staying where he is

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Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has ruled out a possible return as Scotland manager but believes it is a good job for the right candidate.

Following George Burley's dismissal this week a number of names have entered the frame to replace him, although several have since distanced themselves from the role.

McLeish enjoyed a successful spell in charge of the national side before making the switch to Birmingham two years ago, but is happy enough with his current position at St Andrews.

"I said after the World Cup exit that the Scottish FA (Football Association) should back George but you knew he would be scrutinised in every game and, if he didn't get results in the first couple, he would be under pressure again," said McLeish.

"Unfortunately, results never went for George. Circumstances were difficult but no one has sympathy for that side of things, like injuries and not being able to pick your best players.

"It can cost managers their jobs but in Scotland they have got to look forward.

"Is it a job I would want to return to now? No. I've got a fantastic challenge here at Birmingham.

"I am really enjoying it and building a team and infrastructure which hopefully can keep us in the Premier League for a few seasons to come.

"I loved my time with Scotland, a fantastic journey which was part of my education in football and it is a phenomenal honour to manage your country.

"But I am very happy at Birmingham and will be even happier if we get to January showing the same performance levels of the last few weeks."

Rotten job

Aberdeen manager Mark McGhee branded the post "a rotten job" following Burley's departure, but McLeish disagrees.

"The Scotland job is not a poisoned chalice," he said. "It would be a great honour for someone to take the job and anyone with any ambition would say they can make it better.

"I'm sure the SFA will still target managers who are in jobs and I am sure they will be targeting Scots.

"If a foreign coach came in, everyone would want to back him but it is more likely to be a Scot."

Rangers boss Walter Smith, who preceded Burley, has been installed as one of the favourites for the post, while his assistant at Ibrox, Ally McCoist, has been mooted as an outsider.

McCoist, though, admits he is not expecting a call from the SFA any time soon.

"It would be nice to be asked before you turn it down."