The Scottish Football Association are close to replacing Gordon Smith after conducting interviews for the position of chief executive.
Former Rangers and Brighton player Smith stepped down in April after almost three years in the role and the SFA are looking for someone with a business background to replace him. SFA president George Peat has revealed the recruitment process is nearing its end.
"We would hope to make an announcement shortly," said Peat, who also confirmed that a new process for challenging red cards would be in place next season.
"The World Cup has enabled us to conduct the interview process quietly and thoroughly.
"We had approximately 80 applications from our recruitment consultants and from our advertisement of the position.
"We have spent the time since whittling the applications down to a short list and have conducted a series of interviews.
"We are hopeful that this process will be completed in the coming weeks and have been impressed not just by the number but by the quality of candidates."
Meanwhile, Peat confirmed an independent review panel would determine claims for wrongful dismissal following heavy criticism of their previous system of asking referees to reconsider their original decision.
"A similar system will also be in place for investigations into incidents missed by a referee," Peat added.
"This should significantly reduce the time it takes for investigations to be completed and I think everybody will be in favour of an independent panel."
Source: PA
