Jimmy Nicholl (right) wants to push himself back into the limelight

But he hopes that the former Manchester United and Rangers defender does not get the call as he is loath to lose his assistant at East End Park.

Nicholl admits that the national job, made vacant after Sammy McIlroy's departure to Stockport County this week, would be difficult to resist.

And Calderwood said: "It doesn't surprise me in the least to hear Jimmy has been linked with the job.

"I've not seen the other names mentioned, but I'm sure, if there was anything in it, Jimmy would tell me about it.

If I wasn't in a job at the moment, I'd be on the phone to the IFA Dunfermline assistant Jimmy Nicholl

"But it would amaze me if he wasn't wanted, because he has been an integral part of the success we have had here at the club.

"The players, everybody and I certainly think the world of him. But if that's the way he decides to go then what could I do?

"In my eyes, he would be number one choice, although I would hate to lose him.

"He's been absolutely magnificent for me and you always see us together. It would be a massive loss and hopefully it's not going to happen."

Armstrong wants NI job

Calderwood admits that it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that Nicholl would find hard to resist having been touted for the job in the past, especially as the Northern Irishman is keen to be "his own man" again after stints in charge at Raith Rovers and Millwall.

"It would be a great honour to manage your country and, if he gets asked, it's up to Jimmy," he said.

"But he loves his job here and it would be a very cruel decision for him.

"I couldn't stand in his way if that was his decision. Every manager wants to manage his country. We don't always get that chance."

Sanchez keen on NI job

Nicholl looked set to take charge of his country in 1994 but could not agree terms with the IFA, after which Bryan Hamilton accepted the job.

He told the Daily Record this week: "If I wasn't in a job at the moment, I'd be on the phone to the IFA.

"Perhaps what happened in the past will mean they'll look elsewhere, I don't know."

The new Northern Ireland manager faces a tough task reviving the fortunes of a side that last scored a goal 14 games ago and have slipped to 111th in the world rankings.