Scottish independence: Alex McLeish backs No vote

FORMER Scotland manager Alex McLeish has backed a No vote in next year’s independence referendum as he said he was “passionate about Scotland being part of the United Kingdom”.

Sir Alex Ferguson, left, and Alex McLeish share strong Unionist sentiments. Picture: Getty

The football star’s intervention came amid reports that former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson would play a key role in the anti-independence Better Together campaign. McLeish, who was part of the Aberdeen European Cup Winners Cup winning side in 1983 managed by Sir Alex, said he wanted Scotland to remain in the UK.

The former Scotland manager made the comments as he called for support for Labour candidate Willie Young in the Aberdeen Donside by-election this Thursday.

McLeish said: “I am a proud Scot but also passionate about Scotland being part of the United Kingdom. Willie is the candidate who can send a message that we’re better together as part of the UK.”

Meanwhile, Better Together confirmed that Sir Alex would be involved in the campaign, although the details of the football legend’s role have yet to be made public. A spokesman said: “We are grateful for his support.”

Mark McDonald, the SNP candidate in Aberdeen Donside, criticised the record of Labour candidate Mr Young as a councillor in Aberdeen.

He said: “Willie Young says one thing as a councillor, and another as a by-election candidate.”