McClair in frame for United
07 Jul 2008 - 07:32:45
Brian McClair has emerged as the frontrunner to replace Carlos Queiroz should he decide to step down as Sir Alex Ferguson's assistant at Manchester United to become the new coach of the Portugal national side.
Queiroz, 55, is expected to be named the successor to new Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari in the international hot-seat.
The Portuguese coach has spent five seasons at Old Trafford in two spells as Ferguson's number two and is credited with helping lure the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani and Anderson to the club.
Speaking over the weekend, Queiroz admitted his time with the Red Devils is coming towards a close.
"From my part, there is not much to say, it needs to be resolved between the (Portuguese) federation and Manchester United," he revealed.
"I can say little more than you know at this time. Currently the matter is out of my hands"
However, Queiroz's likely exit is expected to lead to a promotion for former United striker McClair.
The 44-year-old Scot is currently employed as the director of the club's youth academy.
McClair, who spent 11 years as a player at Old Trafford, returned to the club as a youth coach in 1998 after an ill-fated spell at Blackburn Rovers, before being promoted to reserve team manager and then his current position at the start of the 2006/07 campaign.