When it comes to stepping up as player-manager for Livingston, Scott Arfield is keeping his options open—but don't expect him to be filling out an application form anytime soon. The 37-year-old midfielder, who has been handed the reins for the relegated club's final three Scottish Premiership matches, admits the role might just give him a few too many grey hairs to make it a permanent gig.
Arfield takes charge starting with Saturday's clash against Dundee at Dens Park (15:00 BST), following the sudden departure of predecessor Marvin Bartley and assistant Neil Hastings. Bartley revealed on Thursday that he felt he "had no option but to resign" after being asked to reapply for his position—a move that has left the club in transition during a tough season.
"I'll tell you on 17 May," Arfield joked when asked about his long-term interest. "If I get a wee bit of grey hair, then I'm not interested. But if it's three wins—and we've only had two all season—you never know."
The former Rangers and Burnley man is no stranger to high-pressure situations, having navigated plenty of "sink or swim" moments throughout his career. Still, he's realistic about the challenges ahead. "I don't think you're ever sure if you want to be in this position until you're thrown in," he said. "I'm actually quite happy being thrown in at the deep end."
Despite stepping into the dugout, Arfield is clear that he won't be putting his name forward for the job permanently. "I wouldn't throw my name in. They might throw my name in, but I wouldn't," he said, adding that he still believes he has plenty to offer as a player. "I was probably the most experienced within this group, hence the reason why I'm in this role."
Livingston's season has been a rollercoaster. Long-serving boss David Martindale guided the club back to the top flight via last season's play-offs, but a struggle for points saw him move into a sporting director role in February. Bartley took over but managed just one win and six draws in 11 matches before his resignation.
As for the player-manager label? Arfield isn't buying it. "I've spoken to a lot of people that have done it, and I understand how difficult it is," he said. "We'll see tomorrow how difficult it is."