Lee McCulloch has backed Scotland boss Alex McLeish for the vacant manager's job at Wigan Athletic.

Former Wigan midfielder McCulloch, now with Rangers, told the Wigan Evening Post: "A lot will depend on Scotland's result against Italy a week on Saturday.

"If we win that, we qualify for Euro 2008, and having gone to three World Cups as a player, I'm sure Alex will want to go to the tournament as a manager.

"But if things go against us, a job at a club might appeal to him.

"If my own experience is anything to go by, everyone at Wigan would be delighted if he was to end up there. He is a players' manager, relaxed and confident, and knows the game inside out.

"I'm sure Alex could get Wigan out of the trouble they are in because tactically he's excellent and would give the players belief.

"His record in club football is excellent. He took Motherwell into Europe, got Hibs promoted back into the SPL and did the treble at Rangers.

"I owe him a lot. He gave me my professional debut at Motherwell, played me in the Scotland Under-21s and now I'm playing under him in the Scotland side.

"Of course, I want us to qualify for Euro 2008 - and for Alex to take us there."