Neil MacFarlane accepts Scotland U19s role | OneFootball

Brentford B head coach Neil MacFarlane will become Scotland Under-19s' new head coach, replacing Billy Stark in the role.

MacFarlane, a Scot himself, will continue to be head coach of the young Bees at Robert Rowan Performance Centre, undertaking both roles in a dual capacity.

The step up to national duty comes ahead of MacFarlane’s sixth season in charge of the B team, which has included a Premier League Cup triumph and numerous young Bees making their way into the first team.

Speaking on the role, MacFarlane said he was looking forward to the opportunity to develop Scotland’s best young talent: "Whenever your country comes and asks you to take one of the national teams, it’s an honour and really exciting.

“I’m delighted the Scottish Football Association have given me this opportunity but, in the same respect, I can’t thank Brentford enough for how supportive they’ve been on it.

"It’s great for all parties and one that I’m hugely looking forward to.”

Throughout his time with Brentford in the B-team set-up, MacFarlane has been instrumental in the development of countless young players who have made their way into the first team, been sent out on loan, or sold to clubs around the world.

It’s this experience that he wants to continue to add to in his dual role with Brentford and the SFA.

“Over the last few years, I’ve been continuously developing these players here at Brentford to go into our first team and beyond,” said MacFarlane.

“Now, as I go into work with the Scotland Under-19s squad, that’s the same: you want to help these young players to progress into the inder-21s and then into the first team.”

MacFarlane and Brentford B are set to open their Under-21s Professional Development League season on Tuesday away to Sheffield United.