Enthusiasm of Mark McGhee got Scots role

Scotland manager Gordon Strachan believes Mark McGhee’s enthusiasm will be a huge asset to the national team after selecting his former Aberdeen team-mate as his assistant.

McGhee, who was sacked as Bristol Rovers manager last month, today declared himself “immensely honoured and proud” to be appointed. The 55-year-old was interviewed for the top job in 2008 before George Burley was appointed.

Strachan, who took over on Tuesday, said: “Mark is not just a fantastic coach but a fantastic person.

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“The enthusiasm he brings to the training ground will be a huge asset to me and to the squad.

“It is important that we start out in a positive frame of mind and remind the players that international recognition, as well as being the greatest honour of your career, is also something to savour and enjoy.

“I have known Mark long enough to know that he shares this philosophy and I am delighted to have him on board.”

McGhee, who scored Scotland’s goal in a 1-1 draw with England in 1984, said: “There are few more passionate Scots around than Gordon and I am hugely excited by the challenge of taking our national team up the table in the FIFA World Cup Qualifying group and, hopefully, helping to lead us to the Euro Championships in France in 2016.”