Gordon Strachan axed as Scotland boss after failed World Cup qualification bid

GORDON STRACHAN has been axed as Scotland manager - and David Moyes is favourite to take his place.

The Tartan Army's 2-2 draw against Slovenia dashed the country's hopes of making it to the World Cup in Russia next year.

SFA bosses decided Strachan, who had been in charge for almost five years, had to go.

And he is followed out the door by assistant coach Mark McGhee.

Strachan, 60, who blamed his side's failure on bad genetics, said: "I said on my first day as Scotland manager that it was the proudest moment of my career and that I wanted to put a smile back on the nation's face again.

"I share the profound disappointment at missing out on the play-offs, especially having worked so hard to fight our way back into contention.

"The players should receive immense credit for that resilience in coming back from a difficult start and I would like to thank each and every player who has come in to represent their country."

A spokesman for the governing body in Scotland said: "The board of the Scottish FA and Gordon Strachan have agreed that the Scotland national team will be led by a new head coach in preparation for the UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying campaign.

"Gordon's tenure will end with immediate effect along with that of his assistant coach, Mark McGhee.

"We are grateful to Gordon for the passion, professionalism and commitment demonstrated since his appointment in January 2013."

Strachan incurred the wrath of fans for his some of his team selections - notably keeping Celtic striker Leigh Griffiths on the sidelines for the opening three matches of their qualifying campaign.

And they were behind the eight ball after early defeats to Slovakia and England, plus a home draw with Lithuania.

Scotland finished third in the group on 18 points, level with second-placed Slovakia.