SFA chiefs want immediate talks with Rangers boss Walter Smith before ruling him out of a Scotland return, reports the Scottish Sun. Smith's future is uncertain with just four weeks left on his Ibrox deal.
The 61-year-old - who had two years at the helm from 2005 to 2007 - has insisted he doesn't want the job.
But SunSport claims that senior Hampden figures want him on the shortlist to succeed George Burley.
The board, headed by president George Peat will now compile a shortlist.
And they want Smith to be on that list along with Dundee United gaffer Craig Levein and two or three others. Former Scotland stars John Collins, Joe Jordan and Gary McAllister are among those who are still in the frame.
Smith's No2 at Gers, Ally McCoist, is also understood to have been considered.
SFA chief executive Gordon Smith issued a statement, saying.
"I can confirm that the board has agreed on the procedures that will culminate in the appointment of a new national coach.
"We'll now initiate that process in the coming weeks.
"In keeping with the timescale which was outlined previously, it remains the intention of the SFA to appoint a coach in time for the Euro 2012 qualification draw in Warsaw."
