Steven Naismith, who currently serves as Scotland's assistant manager, says he expects to stay involved with the national side no matter who ultimately succeeds Steve Clarke. The 39‑year‑old was appointed to the assistant role in August 2025 and has worked alongside Clarke throughout the World Cup qualifying campaign and the summer tournament that followed. The Scottish Football Association is now drawing up a shortlist of candidates to replace Clarke, who announced his resignation a month after signing a new four‑year contract, following Scotland's exit from the World Cup. Among the names being mentioned are former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager Rafa Benítez, Falkirk’s John McGlynn and former Everton boss David Moyes.
Naismith, who previously held the head‑coach position at Hearts, has also been linked with the job, but he insists his priority is simply to do whatever is needed to move the Scottish team forward. "Being with the SFA over the last few years has been a genuinely enjoyable period for me," Naismith told Sky Sports News.
"All the conversations I've had revolve around the fact that I will be involved somewhere. The next manager needs to bring experience because we are at a critical juncture for the national association." He went on to explain that the ideal successor must have a solid track record and the ability to build on the foundations already laid. "I am ready to help in any capacity, as I have been over the past two or three years," he said. "I have spent a lot of time on coach education, completed my UEFA Pro Licence, and I feel I have a range of skills that can benefit the setup.
Whatever short‑term tasks are required, I will take them on because I want Scotland to reach its full potential." While Naismith acknowledges the speculation surrounding David Moyes, he does not expect the Everton veteran to take the Scotland job anytime soon. "David Moyes is one of the best Scottish managers the country has produced," Naismith remarked. "He is currently in a brilliant role at Everton – probably his perfect job at the moment.
It seems unlikely he will leave now, as Everton is undergoing a major rebuild, much like when he first took charge. That said, before he retires I wouldn’t be surprised to see him in the Scotland dugout." Scotland’s next competitive fixtures begin in September with the Nations League. SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell has said the board wants to appoint a new manager "as soon as we can," but he stresses the importance of finding the right candidate rather than rushing the decision.
If a permanent appointment is not secured before the September matches, the association may opt for an interim manager to guide the team through the opening games. The first Nations League tie is an away match against Slovenia on 26 September, followed by three more fixtures within a two‑week span. The group stage comprises six games played over three months, concluding with a visit to Switzerland on 16 November.
Scotland were relegated from League A after a play‑off loss to Greece last year and will now compete in League B for the current cycle. The incoming manager will inherit the task of steering Scotland back toward the top tier of the Nations League and, more ambitiously, preparing the side for the UEFA European Championship that Scotland, along with the Republic of Ireland, will co‑host in 2028.
Looking further ahead, the long‑term goal remains qualification for the World Cup that will be held four years from now. Beyond the immediate coaching shuffle, Naismith highlighted his broader contributions to Scottish football.
He has been actively involved in developing coaching curricula, mentoring younger coaches, and promoting best practices across the national game. His experience as a former international striker, combined with his recent coaching qualifications, gives him a unique perspective that bridges the gap between players and staff. In summary, while the speculation about who will replace Steve Clarke continues, Steven Naismith remains committed to serving Scotland in whatever capacity the board deems appropriate. Whether as a permanent assistant, a temporary caretaker, or even a future head coach, his focus is clear: to help the national team achieve its highest possible standards and to ensure that Scotland remains competitive on the European and world stages.