Allardyce doesn’t want Scotland job

SAM ALLARDYCE yesterday ruled himself out of the running for the Scotland job. The former England boss dismissed links with the post in a radio interview, insisting he wasn’t ready for a return to the front line, but believes David Moyes is the best man to replace Gordon Strachan. Northern Ireland manager

Michael O’Neill remains the first choice of many, while SFA performance director Malky Mackay’s appointment as interim boss at least gives him a chance to pull ahead of a crowded field. One that won’t now include Allardyce. The 62-year-old, who had one game in charge of England before resigning amid scandal, was asked about his interest in Scotland on BBC Five Live yesterday morning. Allardyce, whose parents and sister were all born in Scotland, said: ‘Not at this moment in time, no. Because I’m enjoying not being involved in the front-end of football just now. Very tempting, but no. I think David Moyes would be my choice.’ Former SFA chief executive Gordon Smith said he was sure Moyes would be a serious candidate despite having sent mixed signals, the former Everton and Manchester United boss last week expressing interest but warning that his priority is a return to club football. Smith said Moyes’ subsequent failings in Spain and at Sunderland wouldn’t be a major factor, declaring: ‘I do think they will still consider that he managed at a high level. They will want somebody who understands the pressure. ‘Although David did very well at Preston and Everton, I know it didn’t go too well in Spain or Sunderland. But the problems at Sunderland were largely off the field. He’s a strong candidate, no doubt. ‘I think we should look at Alex McLeish, who did a very good job before leaving for a job in England — and he’s available, too. Then there is also Derek McInnes. I think Moyes, McLeish or McInnes would be the three main candidates.’