Craig Levein today confirmed that he would meet with the Scottish Football Association to discuss succeeding George Burley as Scotland boss.

The SFA have requested permission to speak to the Dundee United manager, who has been one of the favourites for the role since Burley was sacked a month ago. Levein revealed this morning he would speak to United chairman Stephen Thompson before meeting up with the SFA to hear what they have to say.

The 45-year-old told Sky Sports News: "I'll take the team for training this morning and then head to Tannadice to have a meeting with the chairman. Whatever we decide, I will meet with the Scottish FA to hear what they have to say."

Whatever we decide, I will meet with the Scottish FA to hear what they have to say.
Craig Levein

United have since reluctantly bowed to Levein's desire to discuss succeeding George Burley, who was sacked last month. Levein will now hold talks with SFA chief executive Gordon Smith, who is spearheading the search for Burley's replacement.

United said in a statement on their official website: "Further to the telephone call of SFA chief executive Gordon Smith to Dundee United chairman Stephen Thompson last night concerning permission to speak to United manager Craig Levein in relation to the Scotland manager position, the Dundee United board of directors have today reluctantly agreed to Craig Levein's request to speak to the SFA regarding this matter."

Burley was sacked last month after a 3-0 friendly defeat in Wales which followed a failed 2010 FIFA World Cup™ qualifying campaign. The SFA hope to appoint his successor before the UEFA European Championship qualifying draw on 7 February.

Levein has made a good impression at Tannadice, despite being hampered by injury and suspension so far this season. The former Hearts and Leicester boss has so far been unable to call upon last term's top scorer Francisco Sandaza or captain Lee Wilkie.

United are currently fourth in the Premier League, seven points behind pacesetters Rangers, who beat them 3-0 on Tuesday. Levein led the Tangerines to fifth last season, a position which would have been better had they picked up more than a single point from their last four games.