Austin MacPhee Resigns from Scotland Coaching Staff

Austin MacPhee has stepped down from his role as set-piece coach for the Scotland national football team, citing family reasons and increased club commitments with Aston Villa, where he also works. The 44-year-old has been a significant part of head coach Steve Clarke's staff for nearly three years and played a crucial role in Scotland's qualification for Euro 2024. With his father battling illness, MacPhee expressed the need to focus on family while managing the demands of his club's participation in the Champions League. Clarke is currently considering potential replacements but has no immediate plans to fill the position before the team's upcoming Nations League matches against Croatia and Portugal. MacPhee's exit is seen as a setback for Clarke, who has already faced challenges with his coaching staff following the Euros. MacPhee's coaching career includes notable tenures with various clubs and the Northern Ireland national team prior to joining Scotland.