Scotland closing in on new head coach

The Scottish Football Association has identified a leading candidate to become Scotland's next head coach and aims to finalise the appointment within two weeks. The incoming manager would be in place for Scotland's opening Nations League triple-header, which starts with an away fixture against Slovenia on 26 September. Steve Clarke, who had agreed a fresh four‑year contract in May, resigned after Scotland's group‑stage exit at the World Cup this summer, bringing an end to his seven‑year spell in charge. The search for his successor is being overseen by Craig Mulholland, appointed as the SFA's chief football officer in May. Mulholland has reportedly held discussions with a broad range of candidates from the United Kingdom and abroad. Interviews have taken place and the association said it is closing in on a decision. It remains uncertain whether the new head coach will be Scottish or foreign. Steven Naismith, Clarke's former assistant, said recently he expects to remain involved with the national team set‑up under the forthcoming boss.