Scotland U21s have announced today their management team of Tony Docherty as Head Coach and Steven Naismith as assistant manager.

They come in as the replacement for Scot Gemmill, who departed his role in July after thirteen years.

Docherty haș been out of worked since December of last year, when he left Ross County following a mixed spell at Dundee.

Naismith left his role as First Team Assistant Manager alongside Steve Clarke and was heavily rumoured to be in position to take over from 62-year-old, but it is unclear if this was ever a possibility before the SFA went for Sebastien Pocognoli.

The new U21s Head Coach told the official SFA website: “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 and then met Sébastien 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.”

And Naismith also added: “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.

“I am delighted to, of course, be coaching a Scotland team with Tony, but I am most excited by the mentorship programme I will lead, sharing my experiences as a player, manager and coach with some of our brightest young players.”