Thompson not keen on losing Levein

Levein was installed as one of the early favourites to become the new Scotland boss after George Burley was sacked on Monday.

"I don't want Craig going anywhere. He's the club's longest-serving manager since Jim McLean and, while Craig's an ambitious man, I'd love to still have him here five or 10 years from now," Thompson told the Scottish Sun.

"I suppose it's a compliment our manager is being mentioned in these terms.

"But it's difficult as, while I'll always want the national team to do well, at the end of the day I don't own the national football team.

"I want the best for my club and we want to hold onto the management team in place. I have huge respect for Craig as a person and a manager and all I really want is for him to remain as our manager.

"Hopefully the SFA find someone else for the job."

Thompson has not yet decided whether he would allow Levein to speak to the SFA should they come calling.

"If the SFA do ask for permission to speak to him I could refuse, because he's got a contract here," he said.

"But that will depend on the man himself, although all that would be between Craig and I. Would I consider him doing both jobs? I'd have to think about that, but I don't think Scotland have to appoint a manager overnight."