Alex Smith: Players are to blame

Published on Tuesday 17 November 2009 21:49

ALEX Smith last night hit out at the Scotland players who were not fully supportive of George Burley – insisting they are partly to blame for his sacking.

In just under two underwhelming years in charge, Burley's tenure was hindered by Kris Boyd's refusal to play under the former Hearts boss and the infamous drinking binge that appears to have brought Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor's international careers to an early end.

Saturday's punishing 3-0 loss in Wales proved the final nail in the coffin for Burley as the SFA decided to wield the axe.

However, Falkirk coach Smith, who was charged by Burley of compiling information on the Netherlands during the recent ill-fated World Cup qualifying campaign, insists the players should not be immune to criticism. "I am disappointed for George. He was under massive pressure and something had to give but I feel there have been players who have not acted properly during his tenure. We need someone who is experienced, is a good man-manager and can motivate players as it will be the same group of players which George had," he said.

"There may be one or two others who return to the fold. If that happens it will leave a sour taste in the mouth for me."

Meanwhile, former Scotland manager Craig Brown – who guided Scotland to two major finals, Euro 96 and the 1998 World Cup – said the SFA is spoiled for choice from the list of names he had seen suggested as contenders for the job.

Brown said he would always be available to help out on a short-term basis, and "would even line the pitch at Hampden" if required, but accepted he had had his time as manager.

"I would certainly never let my country down if there was a requirement, even for the short-term, but I don't want to make out that I'm touting for a job because I accept quite clearly that I've had my attempt at managing Scotland and I thoroughly enjoyed it," he said.

"I always thought in the past that someone like Joe Jordan, with great respect and managerial experience, would never be out of contention."