St Mirren: Craig McLeish feels ‘ready’ to be permanent boss

McLeish was appointed on a temporary basis alongside head of youth development Allan McManus and goalkeeping coach Jamie Langfield following the departure of Stephen Robinson to Aberdeen.

He has “loved all aspects of it” so far despite the disappointment of a 1-0 home defeat by third-top Rangers in their first game in charge.

“If it’s to the end of the season, or if a manager comes in next week, I hope I’ve shown to the club and to everyone that I can handle it,” McLeish, 35, said.

“If the opportunity came up right now, I’m comfortable. If it doesn’t, I’m in no rush. My whole plan and thought about it is longevity of my career.”

McLeish knows there are examples where “young coaches go in maybe a bit soon” and it ends their managerial career because that first job does not go well.

However, he stressed: “You might not get other opportunities and chances. You can’t time that. You can’t decide when you get opportunities. You just have to be ready for them to come.”

McLeish realises the timing, with St Mirren only above the relegation play-off place on goal difference and also in a Scottish Cup semi-final with Celtic, makes appointing the right team boss crucial, but he is sure his immediate future lies with the Paisley club whatever is decided.

“If they bring someone in, I know I’m going to be part of that team and staff anyway – I’m still here long-term,” said McLeish, who played predominantly in Scottish Leagues 1 and 2.

“I just want the club to do well whatever it decides to do but I have to back my own ability in this current situation.”

St Mirren are the lowest scorers in the Premiership and, as he prepares to take his side to Falkirk, the scene of their only away league win of the season, McLeish’s immediate priority is to “carry more threat in the final third”.