Gordon Strachan leaves Scotland job after World Cup disappointment

Gordon Strachan has left his role as manager of Scotland after failing to lead the national team to the 2018 Fifa World Cup finals.

Strachan and his assistant Mark McGhee leave with immediate effect, following the Scots’ disappointing third-place finish in Group F of the European World Cup qualifying.

Following the 2-2 draw in Slovenia on Sunday, Strachan said Scotland’s genetics make-up was to blame for the failure, with the team struggling to compete against physically bigger, stronger players.

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Scottish FA chief executive Stewart Regan paid tribute to Strachan for his work. “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Gordon for his excellent service to the national team,” said Regan.

“I know how disappointed he was that we couldn’t secure a play-off place, but to come so close was a tribute to the belief he instilled in his squad.”

The Daily Express says that David Moyes is the early bookies’ favourite to replace Strachan. Ladbrokes has Moyes at 11/5 to get the job, with Malky Mackay, Alex McLeish and Derek McInnes also in the running.

Appointed in January 2013 as Craig Levein’s replacement, Strachan was also unable to guide Scotland to Euro 2016. In a statement published by the BBC today, he said he was disappointed not to reach the World Cup, but would take away the magical moments shared with players and fans.

He said: “I said on my first day as Scotland manager that it was the proudest moment of my career and that I wanted to put a smile back on the nation’s face again.

“I share the profound disappointment at missing out on the play-offs, especially having worked so hard to fight our way back into contention.

“The players should receive immense credit for that resilience in coming back from a difficult start and I would like to thank each and every player who has come in to represent their country.

“Together we have shared some really magical moments and those memories will live with me for ever.

“Of course, what made those moments special was the unwavering support of our fans. Through highs and lows you have stayed with the team and my biggest regret is not being able to provide the finals tournament you deserve.”