Scotland name Smith as new boss

Brown, who held the post from 1993 to 2001, said: "It is a terrific appointment for Scotland.

"It will be applauded by the media, all the fans and the players, who will realise they have got a great manager.

"His main quality is his coaching ability, backed up by excellent man-management - he manages players well."

Ex-Scotland international Charlie Nicholas - a major critic of Vogts - feels Smith has what it takes to make a success of his new job.

"He is a gentleman but, if you get on the wrong side of him, he will let you know," Nicholas said.

It is an extremely difficult job but Walter is certainly the best man for it at this time Jim McLean

"I worked with him in the 1986 World Cup finals when he was assistant to Alex Ferguson in Mexico.

"I had five weeks with him and they were absolutely fantastic characters but strong and ambitious.

"Walter has to put his personality in, help change and modernise the SFA and make a strong impression on it.

"Then the team will get better and stronger."

Former Dundee United manager Jim McLean also backed the decision to appoint Smith.

McLean, who handed Smith his first coaching job at Tannadice in 1979, said: "It is a great appointment.

"It is an extremely difficult job but Walter is certainly the best man for it at this time, with no disrespect to Gordon Strachan and others mentioned.

"Walter is my favourite. The most important thing is that he is an outstanding coach."

Another ex-Scotland international, Alan Brazil, believes the Scottish Football Association had no option but to turn to Smith.

Brazil said: "It comes as no real surprise. Walter was the ideal candidate and he has loads of experience.

"The only thing that surprised me was that the SFA didn't move quicker to appoint him.

"I don't know him personally but, from what I've heard from players, he commands respect and he has been around at some great clubs such as Manchester United and Rangers."

Everton boss David Moyes believes Smith must have a long-term outlook if he is to succeed in his new post.

"If it's a case of being judged on the first team in Scotland then that would be harsh on anybody," Moyes said.

"I don't think anything can be done with that at the present time.

"But Walter knows the system, and how the Scottish FA works. Maybe he can restructure behind the scenes to possibly produce teams for the future."

Colin Hendry believes the depth of knowledge Smith has about the Scottish game will hold him in good stead for his time as national boss.

The former Scotland skipper said: "He's got what it takes.

"I spoke to a couple of players recently and they said they wanted a Scottish manager.

"Walter's got great experience, he knows the Scottish game inside out and knows most Scottish players. Hopefully now it's onwards and upwards."