Steven Naismith confirms continued role in Scotland setup amid David Moyes speculation
Scotland assistant coach Steven Naismith has firmly rejected rumors linking him to the head coach position following Steve Clarke’s shock resignation following the national team’s World Cup exit. The 39-year-old, who joined the Scotland coaching staff in August 2025 and worked closely with Clarke during World Cup qualification and the finals, insisted he will remain involved with the national team no matter who takes the managerial reins.
The Scottish Football Association (SFA) is currently drawing up a shortlist to replace Clarke, who stepped down just a month after signing a new four-year contract. Names being circulated include former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager Rafa Benitez, Falkirk’s John McGlynn and former Everton and Scotland boss David Moyes. Despite speculation, Naismith played down the chances of Moyes returning to the Scottish dugout.
“I think David Moyes is one of the best Scottish managers the country has produced,” Naismith told Sky Sports News. “He’s in a brilliant job at the moment, probably his perfect job. If I’m honest, I think it’s probably impossible, because he’s at Everton at a time where it needs a big rebuild, and it’s probably the same as when he first took over. So I think it’s impossible, but he’s a brilliant manager, and I think before he retires, I’m pretty sure we’ll see him in the Scotland dugout.”
Naismith, who previously managed Hearts and has completed his UEFA Pro Licence, stressed his commitment to supporting the national team in any capacity. He revealed, “Being with the SFA over the last few years has probably been a really enjoyable moment for me. All the talk seems to suggest I’ll be involved somewhere.” “The next manager should be someone who has a little experience and can progress from what has been done. For me, I am ready to help wherever I am, and that has always been the case over the last two or three years.”
He highlighted his work on coach education and his broad skill set as assets he brings to the Scotland programme. “I’ve done a lot in coach education. I’ve also got my Pro License in coaching, so I feel like I have some skills in all of these areas that I can contribute. Whatever I need to do in the short term, I’ll do, because I want to make Scotland as good as it can be.”
SFA CEO Ian Maxwell has stressed the urgency of appointing Clarke’s successor ahead of Scotland’s upcoming Nations League campaign, which begins with a clash against Slovenia on September 26. The six group matches will take place over a three-month period, culminating with a trip to Switzerland on 16 November. With Scotland relegated to League B after a play-off defeat to Greece last year, the new manager faces a significant challenge to restore the country’s standing.
Maxwell stressed the importance of securing the right coach rather than rushing into the appointment, leaving open the possibility of an interim manager if a permanent replacement was not immediately found.
Looking ahead, the incoming head coach will be tasked with guiding Scotland to success at Euro 2028, co-hosted by the UK and Ireland, and ultimately the 2030 World Cup campaign.
As the search intensifies, Steven Naismith’s steady presence and willingness to contribute in any role remains a key pillar to Scotland’s future ambitions.
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