Malpas said he could take a job outside football

The former Motherwell manager had been in caretaker charge since Archie Knox left to take a coaching role at English Premier League club Bolton.

But Billy Stark was named the new U-21 boss earlier this week.

"I'm really disappointed to miss out on the Under-21 post, I felt I had the necessary experience for the job," Malpas told the Daily Mail.

Malpas, 45, said he wanted to remain in football and would consider taking a coaching role in England.

"I have already been looking further afield than Scotland and will now intensify my efforts," he said.

"So far, I have spent my whole working life playing and coaching north of the border.

"Never having played in England seems to count against you somewhat and this is something I have discovered while looking for work."

Malpas has been involved with the national team at various age-groups for the past decade.

Malpas said if he was not given the chance to coach elsewhere, he would consider a career outside football.

"If nothing comes up over the next few months, I may have to think of a career change that takes me out of football."

Stark left Queen's Park to become the Scotland U-21s boss and is expected to take up his new role in the next few weeks.

The young Scots are next in action on 17 November when they travel to Slovenia for a European Championship qualifying tie.