EDINBURGH EVENING NEWS REPORTS;

FORMER Scotland scrum-half Alan Lawson was today emerging as a strong contender to fill the post of Scottish Rugby Union chief executive from next season.

The Evening News has learned that Lawson, 57, who gained 15 caps between 1972 and 1980, is among the favourites to succeed Fred McLeod when the interim chief executive/chairman hands over the reins following the SRU’s annual meeting in June.

McLeod stepped into the breach when Phil Anderton resigned in January.

Dollar-based Lawson, who once scored two tries in a memorable Calcutta Cup victory over England at Murrayfield, declined to comment today.

However, Lawson is known to have extensive business expertise while his rugby links are outstanding - qualities that are believed to be hitting the spot with Murrayfield headhunters.

The sons of ex-Edinburgh Wanderers, London Scottish and Heriot’s star Lawson, Rory and Gregor, have both made their mark in rugby with the former an Under-21 cap and leading light in the Edinburgh Gunners squad.

Last week Rory was called into the national squad to provide cover during the build-up to yesterday’s Test win over Romania.

Also, Alan Lawson’s father-in-law is recently retired commentator Bill McLaren.

One former Scotland colleague of Lawson’s, who declined to be named, said: "Alan would be an excellent choice as chief executive for his management abilities, amiable personality and his rugby background which will ensure the game’s ethos is uppermost in his mind when doing this job during difficult times."

"As a player Alan faced the very best including the All Blacks twice for Scotland and would have had a lot more caps but for being around at the same time as another top quality competitor in Dougie Morgan."

McLeod said recently he would not be putting his name forward for the chief executive post after the agm.

If Lawson gets the nod he will be the second ex-internationalist to fill the role following on from Bill Watson who was succeeded by Phil Anderton.

Among the incumbent’s first tasks will be to help fill vacancies on a permanent basis for the national coach and also director of rugby following the departures of Matt Williams and Ian McGeechan.

This article was posted on 6-Jun-2005, 12:36 by Hugh Barrow.