Ange Postecoglou: Ex-Tottenham & Celtic boss named odds-on favourite for manager role

Former Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest boss Ange Postecoglou has been named the favourite to take over Scotland.

Steve Clarke announced that he would be stepping down from the role last week following confirmation that his side were knocked out of the World Cup.

The 62-year-old took over the Tartan Army in 2019 and led them to the European Championship twice before the World Cup, ending almost 30 years of failing to qualify.

Everton manager David Moyes had emerged as the early favourite, but Postecoglou has now risen to the top of the pile.

The 60-year-old has been out of work since he was sacked by Nottingham Forest in October after just eight games, of which he won none.

The Australian had longer and more successful stints with Celtic and Tottenham before that, winning silverware for both clubs.

Ange Postecoglou leads Scotland race

Postecoglou was extremely impressive in his time at Celtic, winning the Scottish Premiership twice, the Scottish Cup and the Scottish League Cup twice.

The Hoops were desperate for him to stay, but he ultimately left for the opportunity of managing Tottenham.

The Australian, who won 83 of the 113 games he was in charge of Celtic for, was even tipped to return this summer at one stage, before it became clear that Martin O'Neill was to stay on.

Postecoglou undoubtedly retains that respect in Scotland, despite his failures down south, and would likely be a popular pick for the national job.

One major bookmaker has named the 60-year-old as the favourite at 3/1, with John McGlynn (5/1), David Moyes (6/1) and Steven Naismith (8/1) also in the race.

How do Postecoglou's teams play?

Clarke's football was often criticised for his tendency to be conservative and safe in possession.

Scotland scored just one goal at the World Cup, and produced only seven shots on target across their three games.

Even Haiti outshot Clarke's side. Postecoglou's teams, however, are famed for their bravery and speed in passing.

The Australian encourages forward-thinking movement and deploys a high-pressing structure.

A system that brave also has its risks, and it would be remain to be seen whether he would even deploy it with Scotland.

Postecoglou would most certainly bring something different to the table, however, and for now, perhaps that is enough.