McCoist wants Smith as Scotland manager

Walter Smith should be at the top of the shortlist for the Scotland manager's job, according to his Rangers assistant, Ally McCoist.

Reports claim Smith has ruled himself out of a return to the post he vacated in January 2007 but McCoist is not convinced his mentor has finished with the national team.

Although Smith's Ibrox contract expires in January, the 61-year-old has stated he will work without one if necessary.

"I don't know if he has had enough," McCoist said.

"With his experience and what he did the first time, he would have to be at the top of any list that I would be picking as a supporter."

Smith has been priming McCoist as his replacement but the former Rangers striker laughed off suggestions he could speed up the succession by persuading his boss to return to Scotland.

McCoist said: "That would be far too scheming for me! I think the day is yet to come when Walter really listens to me to that extent.

"He makes his own mind up and he seems to be doing pretty well at that."