Big Eck named new Scotland coach

Pearson handed Under-21 role

Setanta to make FA rights bid

—– As widely expected, Alex McLeish is named the new Scotland national team coach.
The former Rangers boss succeeds Walter Smith who resigned to take over at Ibrox earlier this month. He has agreed a deal until 2010.
Fondly known as Big Eck, McLeish who won 77 full caps names his former Motherwell, Hibernian and Rangers assistant Andy Watson and the vastly experienced Roy Aitken as part of his backroom staff.
The delighted 48 year-old says: “To be manager of your home nation is a very proud day indeed for Alex McLeish, my family and friends.
“I would love to have as smooth a transition as possible, and continue the good work that Walter Smith has done. Walter has raised hopes of the nation fantastically well and we hope to continue that trend.”

—– Newcastle United coach Nigel Pearson is given the go-ahead to work with the England Under-21s.
While the appointment of Stuart Pearce as head coach has yet to be ratified, United give their permission for the former West Bromwich Albion boss to join the young Lions squad in an assistant capacity.
Toon manager Glenn Roeder says: “When Trevor Brooking approached me about Nigel when I was doing my Pro Licence at Warwick University last week, I told him straight away it was not a problem to us.”

—– Rumours suggest that satellite broadcaster Setanta Sports are considering joining the race for the TV rights for the FA Cup and England internationals.
With the rights due to be sold next month, Setanta will join commercial broadcasters ITV, NTL and Five, in bidding for some of the rights.
The FA is expected to bring in over £400 million for its new TV rights deal because of the competition.