Docherty appointed Scotland Under-21 head coach

Tony Docherty has been named Scotland Under-21 head coach, with Steven Naismith as assistant.

Former Dundee and Ross County manager Docherty, 55, previously worked as part of Gordon Strachan's Scotland backroom team and ex-Hearts boss Naismith, 39, was assistant to Steve Clarke for almost a year.

Clarke left the national team job following Scotland's World Cup campaign, with Sebastien Pocognoli recently announced as his successor.

Docherty, who assisted Derek McInnes at Aberdeen and Kilmarnock, replaces Scot Gemmill, who had been in the position for almost a decade.

"I am looking forward to getting straight to work and I'm delighted I'll be joined by Steven, who I have so much respect for as a coach, as a player, and as an individual," said Docherty.

"I had several lengthy conversations with [Scottish FA chief football officer] Craig Mulholland and then met Sebastien Pocognoli as part of the process. Everyone is aligned on creating a clear national team and player identity and about doing everything we can to improve every aspect of the national game.

"I'm equally enthused by the challenge of supporting our clubs, in a unique new initiative, ensuring we all work together creating real growth.

"It's up to us to make sure the national team experience is the best that it can be, while pushing young Scottish players to be the best they can be."

Naismith added: "Representing Scotland, in various capacities now, has meant so much to me.

"I've learned a lot along the way and it's great to have the opportunity, alongside Tony and the rest of the staff, to pass those experiences on to those hoping to carve out international careers.

"I was fortunate to be part of the staff that took Scotland back to the World Cup for the first time in 28 years and there is a burning desire within the Scottish FA to ensure there is no repeat of that wait.

"There are strong foundations to build on, but there is an obvious drive, energy and focus to enhance every aspect further and see how far it can take us.

"I am delighted to, of course, be coaching a Scotland team with Tony, but I am most excited by the mentorship programme I will lead, sharing my experiences as a player, manager and coach with some of our brightest young players."