O'Neill clears Scotland path for Burns

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill, seen here in 2003, said he would not block Tommy Burns from becoming Scotland's next full-time coach

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill said he would not block Tommy Burns from becoming Scotland's next full-time coach.

Burns, Celtic's head of youth development and formerly assistant to Scotland boss Berti Vogts, was placed in temporary charge of the national side following the German's departure.

Now the former Celtic player and manager is due to take charge in a caretaker role for Scotland's friendly match against Sweden on November 17 at Easter Road.

Burns has put his name forward for the job although the favourite appears to be former Rangers boss Walter Smith.

However, O'Neill said he would have no problem with the Scottish Football Association (SFA) selecting Burns.

"I wouldn't know what the SFA are thinking or what plans they have," O'Neill said.

"I do know that Tommy was asked to step in for a game or two perhaps while the situation is being resolved.

"Whether Tommy is in the picture I don't know but he came to me and asked me if he could do it.

"I am delighted he is doing it but the only question I asked him was what would Berti Vogts think about it?

"Berti has given him his full blessing and that's absolutely fine with me," O'Neill added.

"If Tommy was one of the people involved in the final shortlist, and if the Sweden game put him into the frame for the job, then I don't think anybody at the football club would prevent him from going to manage Scotland."