Derek Forsyth, a 53-year-old Glaswegian, has taken over from Englishman Russell Garcia as Scotland's head coach.

It is the first time in 16 years that the national men's side have been coached by someone born in the country.

Grove Menzieshill's Billy McPherson was in charge back in 1995, but since then Scotland have been under the coaching authority of two Englishmen, two Australians and a German, and it could certainly be argued the national side hardly set the heather on fire during that time.

"Fundamentally, I know the culture and I can instantly identify the diversifications within the culture," said Forsyth. "Recognition, appreciation and understanding of this engenders trust and respect which I believe are an important part of the coach's relationship with his players."

Forsyth also has a history of success at the top level, a point emphasised by Callum McLeod, Scottish Hockey's performance manager. "Derek has proved consistently that he is a winner, with his drive and determination transferring to the players' performances on the pitch," he said. "He was therefore a natural choice."

Forsyth coached Glynhill Kelburne, the Scottish champions, off and on from 1991 to 2010 and, during that time, led the Paisley club to 10 division one titles, five Scottish Cups and three European B Championships.

On the international front, the former Clydesdale and MIM player was head coach to the Scotland Under-21 side between 1991 and 1998 when they finished a very creditable fifth in the European Championships on two occasions, while he also led the Scots youngsters to 10th place in the 1993 Junior World Cup.

Forsyth admits he had to do some soul-searching before accepting the senior post. "It was a difficult decision as the under 21 side have their European competition this year," he explained. However, I have also been assistant coach to the senior squad since 2006, and I feel it is the right time for me to step up and lead."

Forsyth believes he has a positive contribution to make to the senior team. "I want to bring an honesty and winning mentality to the squad . . .There is a good blend of youth and experience and they have a great work ethic and have developed a greater understanding of what is required."

Forsyth has given himself a daunting set of targets: to qualify for the next round of the World Cup this year, to gain promotion to the elite level of the European Championships for the first time since 2005, and to improve Scotland's world ranking going into the 2014 Commonwealth Games.