‘We’re one play-off away

times,” Hodgson said. “It’s distressing to hear these stories. Unfortunately, it goes with the territory and people will find a way of trying to punish you.”

Mcleish’s position was placed in jeopardy last week following a disastrous opening to Scotland’s Euro 2020 qualifying campaign. The side crashed to a 3-0 defeat to 117th ranked Kazakhstan and then produced an underwhelming performance in the 2-0 win over San Marino.

Scotland were booed off at half-time and then at fulltime in San Marino with much of the anger directed at a trio of Scottish Football Association officials – president Alan Mcrae, vicepresident Rod Petrie and Maxwell.

Mcleish’s record since returning for his second spell as manager is seven defeats in 12 matches. This stands in marked contrast to his first period in charge more than a decade ago when he won seven out of ten matches, including against France in Paris.

Supporters are agitating for change and Mcleish’s position remains uncertain. But the beleaguered 60-year-old received support from someone acutely aware of the stresses that come with being in charge of Scotland’s national football team – Hearts manager Craig Levein.

Speaking before the Tynecastle side’s Premiership clash with Aberdeen tomor