BY DARREN JOHNSTONE – Capital City Press
Steven Pressley admits he is delighted for the chance to return to the dugout – even if it is with the Scotland Under-17s.
The former Falkirk and Coventry manager, who collected 32 Scotland caps as a player, will be a guest head coach for the Euro Under-17 qualifying matches against Macedonia, Bulgaria and Italy later this month.
Scottish FA performance director Brian McClair is keen to introduce new coaches to the set-up after Scot Gemmill moved up to take charge of the Under-19s.
Pressley has been out of work since February after he was axed at English League One side Coventry City but is thrilled to have been been enlisted by the SFA on a temporary basis.
He said: “I am very passionate about the game and I also care about the development of our young players.
“I was proud to have represented my country as a player and I am delighted to be coaching the under-17s for these forthcoming games.
“While I am out of the game at club level as a manager, this is an ideal opportunity for me to give something back to the grassroots game and I am really looking forward to helping these young players develop.”
Scotland Under-17s take on Macedonia, Bulgaria and Italy on October 21, 23 and 26 respectively.
Performance director McClair said: “Steven travelled to Romania with the Under-17s in August on an observational basis and we’re delighted to have him board as our lead coach for the European qualifying round in Bulgaria.
“It’s an opportunity for us to bring someone with a lot of experience as a player and coach into the international setup and I’m sure Steven will offer up some fresh ideas.
“He is very enthusiastic about joining us for this trip and I am confident there will be benefits for everyone involved.”
