Smith rules out Scots return

Gers boss staying at Ibrox

Last updated: 20th November 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Smith rules out Scots return

Smith: Out of running

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Walter Smith has ruled himself out of the running to take the reins of Scotland for a second time.

Smith had been a leading contender to replace George Burley after he was sacked on Monday following the 3-0 defeat to Wales last weekend, but the Rangers manager insists he has no interest in a returning to the Tartan Army.

Scotland's world ranking rose 70 places while Smith was at the helm, although he departed in the middle of the Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.

He said: "We were in the middle of a qualifying campaign, and were trying to reach the European Championship. But, after making the decision to leave Scotland at that time, I don't feel it would be right to go back and that is the situation.

"The matter is now closed as far as I am concerned.

"I'd like to stress I have never been offered the Scotland job again. I haven't spoken to anyone at the SFA (Scottish Football Association).

"What I am doing is responding to press speculation in a bid to end it as I don't think it is fair on anyone.

"The fact is, I left the Scotland job of my own volition. Sometimes when you get the sack, it is actually easier to go back. But when you make your own decision to leave then it isn't that easy.

"So that is my stance. I thoroughly enjoyed my time as Scotland manager. It was a difficult decision at the time to leave and go back to Rangers."

Dundee United boss Craig Levein is the favourite to succeed Burley after Smith added his name to the growing list of managers that have ruled themselves out of contention.