Time is Right to Move On - Stark

Billy Stark has stepped down as Scotland Under-21 coach, the Scottish Football Association has announced on its official website. The former St Mirren, Aberdeen and Celtic midfielder joined the Scottish FA in January 2008 from Queen's Park to oversee the development of the Scotland national youth teams, but felt it was "time to move on''. Ricky Sbragia will take charge of the under-21 squad for the November 18 friendly against Switzerland in Thun. Stark said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working at the Scottish FA, but feel now is the right time to move on. "There is no greater honour in football than representing your country, and I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to do so as a coach. "I've enjoyed some real highs over the years, especially winning our qualifying group and reaching the play-offs in 2010. "I've been lucky enough to work with some excellent players during my time here and it's great to see so many of them go on to make an impact with the full squad. "I would like to thank the players and staff I've worked during my time at the Scottish FA, and wish them every success for the future.'' Stark led Scotland U21s to three top-two finishes in European Under-21 Championship qualifying, including a play-off place in 2010. The former Morton and St Johnstone boss also took temporary charge of the Scotland A squad in 2012, guiding the team to a 2-1 victory in Luxembourg, and was involved in the development of the Scottish FA's first-ever 'performance strategy'. Stewart Regan, Scottish FA chief executive, said: "On behalf of everyone at the Scottish FA, I would like to thank Billy for his fantastic contribution to the Scotland national youth teams over the last six years. "He has played a key role in the development of several Scotland A squad players during that time and has maintained a high level of consistency with the under-21 squads. "During Billy's time working with the under-21s, the team have risen from 41st to 17th in the UEFA co-efficient rankings. "Billy has also played a key role in the development of the performance strategy and has helped lay the foundations for what will be a bright future for Scottish football. "I would like to wish Billy all the best for the future.''