Steven Naismith, who currently serves as Scotland's assistant manager, says he expects to stay involved with the national side no matter who steps into Steve Clarke's shoes. The 39‑year‑old was brought into the senior set‑up in August 2025 and has worked alongside Clarke throughout the World Cup qualifying campaign and the tournament itself this summer.
The Scottish Football Association is now drawing up a shortlist of candidates to replace Clarke, who announced his departure a month after signing a fresh four‑year contract, following Scotland's exit from the World Cup. Naismith, a former Hearts head coach, has been mentioned as a possible successor, but he insists his priority is to do whatever is needed to move the Scotland team forward.
"Being with the SFA over the last few years has been a genuinely enjoyable period for me," Naismith told Sky Sports News. "The conversations I've had have all centred on the fact that I will be involved somewhere in the future.
The next manager needs to have a solid amount of experience because we are at a critical juncture for the national association." He went on to stress that the new boss must be capable of building on the foundations already laid. "I think the appointment has to be someone who can progress what has been done and take us to the next level," he said. "For me, I'm ready to help wherever I may be needed – that has been my approach for the last two or three years." Naismith highlighted his work on coach education and his recent acquisition of the UEFA Pro Licence, arguing that these qualifications give him a useful skill set for any role within the national team structure.
"I've spent a lot of time on the education side, and I feel I can contribute in a number of areas," he added. "Whatever short‑term tasks I am asked to perform, I will do them because I want Scotland to be as strong as possible." Among the names being floated for Clarke's replacement are former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager Rafa Benítez, Falkirk veteran John McGlynn, and former Everton boss David Moyes.
While Naismith acknowledged Moyes' reputation, he did not expect him to take the Scotland job in the near future. "David Moyes is one of the best Scottish managers the country has produced," the former Toffees forward said.
"He's in a brilliant position at the moment – probably his perfect job. If I'm honest, I think it's unlikely he'll leave Everton now, as the club is undergoing a major rebuild, much like when he first arrived.
So I think that scenario is improbable, but he's a fantastic manager and I wouldn't be surprised to see him in the Scotland dugout before he retires." Scotland's next fixtures arrive in September when the Nations League campaign resumes. SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell has said the association wants to appoint a new manager "as soon as we can," but he stressed the importance of finding the right fit rather than rushing the decision. If a permanent appointment is not secured before the September matches, the SFA may opt for an interim manager to steer the side through the opening games.
The first match under a new boss will be an away trip to Slovenia on 26 September, followed by three more fixtures within a two‑week window. The six‑game group stage will be completed over three months, culminating 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 this cycle.
The incoming manager will inherit the task of guiding Scotland through the Nations League, aiming to secure promotion back to League A and to lay the groundwork for the Euro 2028 tournament, which Scotland will co‑host with the rest of the United Kingdom and Ireland. Looking further ahead, the long‑term objective is to build a squad capable of qualifying for the 2030 World Cup. Beyond the immediate tactical challenges, Naismith emphasised the broader cultural shift required within Scottish football. He believes that improving youth development pathways, investing in modern training facilities, and fostering a cohesive playing philosophy across all age groups are essential components of long‑term success.
"We need to create a pipeline that consistently produces players who understand our style and can perform at the highest level," he said. Naismith also pointed to his own journey as an example of the value of continuous learning. After retiring as a player, he pursued coaching badges, worked in various academy roles, and eventually earned his Pro Licence, which he believes equips him to contribute meaningfully whether as an assistant, head coach, or technical director. In summary, while speculation continues around who will ultimately replace Steve Clarke, Steven Naismith remains committed to serving Scotland in whatever capacity the association deems appropriate.
His focus is on continuity, experience, and the development of a robust national footballing identity that can thrive both in the short term and for years to come.