Former SPFL manager appointed new Scotland U21 head coach supported by ex-Steve Clarke assistant

The former Dundee manager will be supported by Steven Naismith, the ex-Hearts boss who most recently held the position of assistant coach to Steve Clarke with the senior national team.

Both men combine their roles with additional responsibilites within the Scottish Football Association.

Docherty will lead a new Future Managers initiative, contribute to a new SFA Talent ID process, and support four clubs as part of a new Club Growth Programme. Naismith, meanwhile, will help implement a new mentorship initiative for the brightest talents in the SFA pathway as well as contributing to the Talent ID and Club Growth programmes.

While both will initially work with the Under-21s, the SFA plan to rotate national youth team coaches across the age groups as part of a new concept to give coaches a "better working knowledge of all of the talents in the Scotland pathway".

Their arrival follows the appointment of Sebastian Pocognoli as the new head coach of the senior Scotland national team last week.

Craig Mulholland, SFA chief football officer, said: “Tony and Steven are exciting appointments for us, particularly in the wake of Sébastien’s arrival last week. It was important that Sébastien also participated in the recruitment process, given how closely the 21’s will align with the A squad as we build our national team DNA, methodology and behaviours.

“This is a fresh start, and not only will our Under-21 players be excited to join up at camp to work with two experienced coaches, but we will also see both guys use this experience to benefit the wider game as part of our new strategy.

“Tony and Steven have, in many conversations through this process, shown a modern and innovative approach, which is fully aligned with our new direction.

“While I am delighted to have Tony and Steven lead this project, I would like to thank all of the other candidates we spoke to, as it was clear we have many exceptional coaches in our country who care passionately about making a difference to our national game.”

Docherty said: “I have had the privilege of coaching within the Scotland A squad set-up before, and more recently within the Coach Education team. You are always proud to represent your country, in whatever capacity. It doesn’t get any better than that.

“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.

“I had several lengthy conversations with Craig Mulholland and then met Sébastien 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.”