Scotland under-21 coach Peter Houston admits it would make sense for the Scottish FA to turn to Malky Mackay and Scot Gemmill for June’s Euro qualifiers.

The SFA board are needing to find a successor to Alex McLeish after the 60-year-old’s ill-fated 14 month spell came to an end last Thursday.

Former Croatia manager Slaven Billic is said to be interest in the vacancy, while Kilmarnock manager Steve Clarke and Aberdeen’s Derek McInnes have also been linked.

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However, with time running out before the next Group I clashes with Cyprus and Belgium on June 8 and 11 respectively, Houston, who is assistant to Gemmill with the under-21s, believes the one-time Everton midfielder could link up with SFA performance director Mackay on a temporary basis in the dugout.

Houston said: “You’re always better with a permanent manager, somebody who is going to be given time and a chance and someone who they want.

“I think it has to be done fairly quickly.

“As time goes on, there is a squad to be picked for these two games at the beginning of June and I think it’s the sooner the better they get something sorted out.

“It would not surprise me if they turn to Malky and Scot, who are two capable guys - Malky has been a manager down south and done exceptionally well.

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"I think it would be with Malky being in charge. He is Scot’s boss as well but they work well together with regards to a great relationship.

“Scot, I’ve seen him on the training ground shaping up the team and he is meticulous in his planning for the games.

“There is no stone unturned with what the players might have to know about the opposition.

“They are very organised people and very knowledgeable of the game and if they went down that road until they found another manager then I think it would be a good thing.”