SFA confirms Levein departure

Craig Levein has finally paid the price for Scotland's poor start to their World Cup qualifying campaign after being "relieved of his duties" as national team manager.

The Scottish Football Association board delivered their verdict on his near-three-year tenure this evening after protracted deliberations.

Scotland U-21 coach Billy Stark will take temporary charge of the team with his first task to name a squad for next Wednesday's friendly in Luxembourg.

A statement read: "The Scottish FA tonight announces that Craig Levein has been relieved of his duties as Scotland national coach.

"The board of the Scottish FA has taken the decision primarily due to the disappointing results in the FIFA World Cup Brazil 2014 Qualifiers, which have culminated in Scotland being bottom of the group after four matches."