Scotland have appointed former Airdrie United manager Kenny Black as a part-time assistant coach to Craig Levein.

The 46-year-old was sacked in the summer after the Diamonds were relegated to Division Two after a play-off defeat by Brechin City.

"It was a surprise," revealed Black. "But the step up doesn't phase me and whatever job Craig earmarks me for I'll give it 100%.

"I've worked with Craig before and I was delighted to get the call."

Black had been part of Levein's staff while he was manager of Leicester City, along with Dundee United boss Peter Houston, who will also assist the national team.

The trio worked together at the Walkers Stadium for 15 months, ending in their sacking in January 2006.

Stenhousemuir-born Black will join the Scotland staff for the friendly against Sweden in August and cannot wait to get started.

"It's a big change from fighting tooth and nail to try and stay in the First Division," he added.

"But you always want to test yourself at the top level and this is an opportunity to get an insight into what goes on with the national team."

Black played for Rangers, Motherwell, Heart of Midlothian, Portsmouth, Airdrieonians and Raith Rovers during his playing career.

We've always been a nation who seem to rise when the going gets tough and dig out some sort of result Kenny Black

His coaching career began as assistant to Sandy Stewart at Airdrie and he returned to the club as manager after his time with Levein at Leicester.

Black was in charge of Airdrie for four years during which they were relegated three seasons in a row, although they were twice saved from from the drop by financial problems at Gretna and Livingston.

Scotland have been drawn against World Cup winners Spain, Czech Republic, Lithuania and Lichtenstein in their qualifying section for Euro 2012.

"We have the small obstacle of playing against the world champions and we're looking forward to meeting up with them," said Black, who harbours ambitions to return to club management.

"We get frustrated when we see the major championships coming along and Scotland not being involved.

"Craig wants to change that but there's no doubt the best team won the World Cup.

"We've always been a nation who seem to rise when the going gets tough and dig out some sort of result.

"There is no doubt Spain are a top class act and we can learn from them.

"But first and foremost we've got to go and make sure we get off to a good start in qualifying and see where it takes us."

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