Adam blames media for Levein 'exit'

Scotland midfielder Charlie Adam has blamed the press after hearing reports that Craig Levein had lost his job as national team manager.

The Scottish Football Association are expected to announce imminently that Levein has lost his job due to a competitive record of three wins from 12 matches and with Scotland bottom of their World Cup qualifying group. But Adam showed his continuing support as reports began to break of Levein's departure.

The Stoke player wrote on his official Twitter account: "On my way back to hear Craig Levein has gone. Unbelievable. Can't believe the Scottish papers got what they wanted."

Adam's support of Levein does not appear to be shared by the vast majority of fans, with qualification for Brazil 2014 already looking well beyond Scotland before the halfway point of the campaign.

The SFA's seven-man board have been in lengthy discussions and deliberations over the position since last week.

Levein revealed last Wednesday he had pleaded his case with chief executive Stewart Regan and president Campbell Ogilvie after returning from the holiday that followed last month's double header.

The SFA have come under severe criticism for their slow response - Levein was due to name his squad for next Wednesday's friendly against Luxembourg on Tuesday.

Levein's job had been under serious threat since defeats by both Wales and Belgium, and his overall competitive record - three wins from 12 matches - is among the worst of modern Scotland managers.

The SFA called a press conference for 7pm with Regan and Ogilvie due to appear. An official statement confirming Levein's departure is expected beforehand with Scotland Under-21 coach Billy Stark tipped to take temporary control.