BRIAN MCCLAIR is ‘disappointed’ he couldn’t make a significant contribution to shaping Scottish football after he quit his position as Performance Director just 13 months into the job.
The former Manchester United youth chief replaced Mark Wotte at Hampden last year and presented the Scottish FA's new vision for the future of our game in January.
But the search must now begin for the next person to fulfil the key role in a bid to help young players progress through the ranks and be capable of ending Scotland’s exile from major finals sooner rather than later.
The Performance Working Group will remain in place and will be chaired by Alastair Gray in the interim as the SFA consider their options going forward.
McClair said: “I can confirm that I will leave my position as Performance Director. I am deeply disappointed that I couldn’t make a significant difference, but I would like to thank my staff for the help they have given me and the board for the opportunity.
“I would also like to wish my successor all the best in the future in their efforts to develop the environment for the young talent that Scotland deserves.”
The SFA have reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the required changes to improve Scotland’s fortunes on the international stage.
And chief executive Stewart Regan has expressed his gratitude to McClair for his efforts during his time at the National Stadium.
Regan said: “I would like to thank Brian for his time as Performance Director. I am really disappointed that we have parted company after a year, but the complexities of the role cannot be overestimated.
“While his experience of developing talent over a sustained period of time at Manchester United was a major attribute, being Performance Director requires a different style of leadership and focus.
“As Performance Director, he found himself spending more time lobbying and presenting in the boardroom. It became apparent that this was neither a comfortable nor tenable situation in the long term.
“I would like to reiterate my thanks to Brian for his efforts and wish him the best of luck in the future.”
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