JOHN PRENTICE, the former Scotland manager, has died aged 79. Prentice played for Hearts and Rangers and led Falkirk to their Scottish Cup win over Kilmarnock in 1957.

He began his managerial career with Arbroath before returning to Brockville. From there, Prentice moved to Clyde before being named as Scotland manager in March 1966.

He spent just six months in charge and returned to club management with Dundee after defeats at Hampden Park by England, Holland and Portugal.

However, in June 1966, he guided the team to a 1-1 draw with world champions Brazil in Glasgow as part of the South American giants' preparation for the World Cup in England.

It was the first game between the two countries, Hampden witnessing an appearance by Pele.

Prentice moved to Australia in the mid-1970s where he died after suffering from a brain tumour.

His son, Alan, said last night: "My dad had a wonderful life and had many happy memories of his time in Scottish football."