Scotland: Kenny Logan backs Scott Johnson for interim coach

 

Current Scotland attack coach Scott Johnson should be appointed interim head coach, according to a former international.

Kenny Logan told BBC Scotland that Scottish Rugby should then look to appoint Nick Mallett or Jake White.

Logan believes a lack of international experience could rule out former Glasgow head coach Sean Lineen.

Andy Robinson ended his three-and-a-half year reign after the defeat by Tonga.

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“I would be going for a big name if they can get one and attract a big name”

Kenny Logan

Scotland have slipped to 10th in the 2015 World Cup seedings and have lost 10 of their last 13 matches, including being knocked out of the World Cup in New Zealand last year at the group stage for the first time.

Logan said it was crucial to make the right appointment to take the national side forward.

"We shouldn't panic because we're three years away from the World Cup," Logan said.

"I would go for Scott Johnson as interim coach to get us through the Six Nations and go for a big name like (former South Africa coaches) Nick Mallett or Jake White.

"Sean's not had any international experience and that's a risk because he's never done international rugby before.

"I would be going for a big name if they can get one and attract a big name."

“The role of a national coach is to organise and with the minimum of fuss”

Image of John Beattie John Beattie BBC rugby pundit

Robinson ended his tenure on Sunday morning, making good on his warning the day before that the defeat by the South Pacific team would bring about "consequences".

In his resignation statement, the Englishman said: "I am very disappointed by our recent results but I have belief in the players to develop into a winning team.

"I believe I have left the team in a better position than when I took over and have great confidence in the players and the coaches for the future."

Scottish Rugby said it would begin their search for Robinson's replacement immediately.

Chief executive Mark Dodson issued a statement saying "a change in head coach is required to take the team forward and build towards the Rugby World Cup in 2015".