Tony Docherty will work towards a “clear national team and player identity” after being appointed Scotland Under-21 head coach.
The former Dundee boss will be supported by Steven Naismith, who was assistant to former national team manager Steve Clarke. The dual appointment comes after the Scottish Football Association recently confirmed Belgian boss Sebastien Pocognoli would succeed Clarke.
Docherty told scottishfa.co.uk: “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 (Scottish FA Chief Football Officer) 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.”
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Docherty and Naismith, who succeed long-serving Under-21 head coach Scot Gemmill, will also have additional responsibilities within the association. Docherty will lead a new Future Managers initiative, contribute to a new Scottish FA Talent ID process, and will support four clubs as part of a new Club Growth Programme.
Naismith, in addition to his coaching role during international windows, will help implement a new, innovative mentorship initiative for some of the brightest talents in the pathway, and will also contribute to the Talent ID and Club Growth programmes.
Former Hearts boss Naismith said: “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.”
Mulholland said: “Tony and Steven are exciting appointments for us, particularly in the wake of Sebastien’s arrival last week. It was important that Sebastien also participated in the recruitment process, given how closely the 21s will align with the A squad as we build our national team DNA, methodology and behaviours.”
The Scottish FA also announced that further updates will follow shortly on Pocognoli’s men’s national team backroom staff, and the remaining national youth team coaching roles.
