Levein taking legal advice over sacking (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Levein taking legal advice over sacking

7:36am Thursday 8th November 2012 in National Sport © Press Association 2013

Former Scotland manager Craig Levein has thanked his players for their "unswerving" loyalty, while confirming he is taking legal advice following his dismissal.

Levein was "relieved of his duties" by the Scottish Football Association on Monday, who stressed they would honour the remaining 20 months of his contract. A poor start to the World Cup qualifying campaign cited as the main reason for their decision.

In a statement last night, Levein said: "I would like to thank everyone who has supported the team and I during my time as Scotland manager."

He added: "It has been a privilege to have done the job and I would like to thank my backroom staff who have worked tirelessly during my time as manager. Most of all I would like to thank the players for their unswerving loyalty, effort and professionalism.

"I am extremely disappointed by the process of the last week. I note the position as stated by the Scottish Football Association but do not concur and I am currently taking legal advice as to my options.

"I will make no further comment at this time."

Meanwhile, interim boss Billy Stark is determined to use next week's friendly against Luxembourg to galvanise a Scotland squad left disappointed by Levein's departure.

Gordon Strachan and Owen Coyle are among those who have been tipped to fill the vacancy and Under-21s boss Stark has refused to rule himself out of the running. But he insists his priority right now is boosting morale ahead of the match on November 14.

Stark said: "I can say categorically I'm not thinking anywhere beyond this game.

"I've got enough on my plate trying to get the players lifted because they are disappointed that Craig has left. It has been very apparent that there was a real loyalty there to Craig."