Alex Ferguson has ruled himself out of the Scotland job despite the backing of outgoing manager Craig Brown, whose eight-year reign ended on Saturday. His departure follows Scotland's failure to qualify for the World Cup finals, despite beating Latvia 2-1 at Hampden Park. Brown will continue as SFA technical director.

Bookmakers have gone for former Scotland midfielder Gordon Strachan - recently sacked as manager by English first division club Coventry City - with Ferguson and Alex McLeish, the Hibernian manager, joint-second favourites.

McIlroy in trouble: Northern Ireland could have no coaches in their dugout for their opening Euro 2004 qualifier next year after Sammy McIlroy and Jimmy Harvey were sent off during their 1-0 victory in Malta.

The win, which came courtesy of a David Healy penalty, was overshadowed by the incident. McIlroy was banished to the stands for throwing the ball at Malta striker Michael Mifsud and then Harvey followed for remonstrating with the officials.

Hartson helps Hughes: John Hartson believes he is repaying under-pressure Wales manager Mark Hughes for helping to rescue his career.

Despite two collapsed transfers and ongoing injury trouble, Hughes never lost faith in the 26-year-old and saw the benefits when his striker grabbed a fine winner in Cardiff on Saturday against Belarus. "Honestly I didn't really think he was under - or should have been under - any real pressure. I feel it would be a massive backward step if there were any changes," said Hartson.

USA qualify: The United States qualified the World Cup yesterday with a 2-1 victory over Jamaica. Trinidad & Tobago beat Hondurus 1-0 while Mexico drew 0-0 with Costa Rica.

Brazil stay in touch: Brazil revived their chances of qualification with a 2-0 win over Chile yesterday. Second half goals from Edilson and Rivaldo mean Brazil stay fourth in the South American group. The top four teams qualify automatically.