A football manager who was investigated by the FA for a string of racist, sexist and homophobic texts is to be put in charge of Scottish football’s youth development.

Former Scottish First Minister Henry McLeish is set to appoint him to the role, saying he will face “a tremendous challenge” in the role.

The footballing manager and former player was found sending a long series of offensive texts, including labelling one associate a “gay snake”.

He will now be Performance Director of Scottish football, responsible for the youth development programme.

“It’s up to him to prove his doubters wrong,” McLeish told BBC Scotland.

“He’s made some statements in the past that created some controversy and, hopefully, he’s taken responsibility for all of that.”

The Scot apologised for his actions and voluntarily undertook diversity training following the incident.

He was not disciplined by the FA after they said there were issues with the evidence.

SNP MSP Clare Haughey called on the Scottish FA to “see sense” and rule out Mackay as a candidate, arguing his appointment would send out the wrong signals.

Malky Mackay was reported to the FA by his former club, Cardiff City, for alleged involvement in the texts.

Allegations were made by the club that he was involved with the a string of offensive texts whilst working there, and a dossier has been given to the FA to investigate.

One of the texts allegedly read: “He’s a snake, a gay snake. Not to be trusted.”

Moody had been head of recruitment under Mackay at Cardiff before he was sacked in October 2013.

The appointment comes days after the FA answered rumours about three players coming out as gay.

UK football boss Greg Clarke previously said he didn’t the beautiful game was ready for a footballer to come out.



Mr Clarke caused outrage when he said: “I would be amazed if we haven’t got gay players in the Premiere League, and I am personally ashamed that they don’t feel safe to come out.”

Sports Minister Tracey Crouch criticised the FA chairman for his previous comments, saying she found them “disappointing comments” and feared they would encourage a gay player to hide their sexuality.