Kenny Dalglish, Scotland’s most-capped player, described MacLeod as a “larger than life character”, while Joe Jordan — who scored in three successive World Cups — praised his optimism.

Jack McConnell, the First Minister, hailed McLeod as a “Scottish hero” and the Scottish Football Association (SFA) said that he would be fondly remembered by the Tartan Army.

Ahead of the finals in Argentina, MacLeod forecast the team would return home with “at least a medal”. The nation’s optimism was captured in comedian Andy Cameron’s hit song On the March with Ally’s Army.

But when the team reached South America, they lost 3-1 to Peru and drew with Iran only to end their campaign by defeating eventual runners-up Holland.

The 3-2 victory over the Dutch included a stunning solo goal by winger Archie Gemmill. But the sight of an exasperated McLeod sitting in the dugout with his head in his hands became the defining image of Scotland’s first round exit.

Kenny Dalglish recalled MacLeod with affection. “Ally was a real larger than life character. He was somebody who brought a great deal of humour into whatever company he was in.

He will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him. The game nowadays could certainly do with more characters of his ilk.”

The Manchester United striker Joe Jordan said that he was very sad to hear of MacLeod’s death.

“He was always the optimist. That’s what I would remember of him. He loved his football.”

An SFA spokesman said that everyone in football would be saddened to hear of his death.

A left-winger in his playing days with Hibernian and Blackburn, MacLeod began his management career at Ayr before moving on to Aberdeen, where he won the League Cup.

He returned to club management with Motherwell and Airdrie after leading Scotland from 1977-78.

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