Turned down Scots job

By Chris,
September 4 2009

Reports suggest that Sir Alex Ferguson was approached to be the Scotland manager on a part-time basis before George Burley was handed the job. The United boss rebuffed the SFA’s approach.

The Guardian claim that the Scottish Football Association approached Fergie, offering him the international job on a part-time basis prior to George Burley's appointment in January 2008.

Scotland were seeking a new manager following Alex McLeish's departure to Birmingham City - and the SFA were hopeful that Fergie would offer his services whilst continuing his work at Old Trafford.

Fergie has managed Scotland before. Following Jock Stein's death, he took charge of the Tartan Army and led them to the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.

However, at the age of 67, the former East Stirling, St.Mirren and Aberdeen boss wasn't prepared to take put the extra pressure of international football on his plate and declined the offer.

The SFA eventually plumped for Burnley on 24th January, 2008. The former Hearts chief has enjoyed a difficult start, winning only two of ten international games.

Darren Fletcher is part of Burley's squad that faces a crucial qualifier against Macedonia this weekend.