Alex McLeish was today named as the new manager of Scotland. The 48-year-old replaces Walter Smith, who resigned from the post earlier this month to return to Rangers.

McLeish - who has 77 caps for Scotland - will lead the national team through the remainder of the Euro 2008 campaign and take Scotland towards the World Cup in 2010.

Scottish Football Association chief executive David Taylor said: "It is a particular pleasure to announce the appointment of a former Scotland player to the position of national coach.

"We have moved quickly to fill the vacancy caused by the unexpected departure of Walter Smith earlier this month. I am sure all of Scotland will get behind Alex in support of the national side as we try to build on the improved performances of recent times."

McLeish stepped down as Rangers manager last year after winning seven trophies in five seasons and becoming the first boss to steer a Scottish club into the Champions League knockout phase last season.

He was replaced by Paul Le Guen but the Frenchman lasted only seven months and Rangers persuaded Smith to leave the Scotland job, creating the vacancy.

Scotland top Euro 2008 qualifying Group B with nine points from four games and their next fixture is against Georgia on March 24th at Hampden Park.

McLeish's first engagement with Scotland will be on February 4 for a three-day squad gathering at Turnberry Hotel in Ayrshire.