Craig Levein’s appointment as Scotland manager was finally confirmed this afternoon by the Scottish Football Association (SFA). The wintery weather threatened to further delay the signing of a four-and-a-half-year contract but the loose ends were tied up shortly before 6pm.

Levein earlier stepped down as manager of Dundee United, where he spent just over three years in charge. The 45-year-old has been one of the favourites for the role from the outset, was first given permission to speak to the SFA on Thursday.

After meeting with them on Monday, confirmation of his appointment had been expected yesterday but negotiations proved protracted and their conclusion was not helped by the weather.

A delighted Levein, who cost the SFA a reported €280,000 in compensation, said: “As a proud Scotland fan, it is a dream come true to take charge of the national team.

“I very much enjoyed my time at Dundee United, and would like to thank the players, backroom staff, supporters, directors, chairman Stephen Thompson, and everyone associated with the club for their support, but I felt that this was an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up.

“I was delighted to put pen to paper today, and now I can’t wait to get started, as we prepare for the Euro 2012 qualifying campaign.”

SFA chief executive Gordon Smith said: “Craig was the unanimous choice of the board and brings a wealth of experience as a player — including 16 international caps for Scotland — and as a coach.

“He has established a firm reputation as one of the most respected managers in the country and has already expressed his excitement at leading Scotland into the qualification campaign for Euro 2012 and beyond.

“I am sure the players, the Scotland supporters and media will share his ambitions and I urge the whole country to get behind the new manager in the collective aim to return to a major championship finals.”