Peter Houston today welcomed the possibility of Scotland launching a joint bid to host Euro 2020 – but wants to see the national team end their exile from major finals on merit long before then.
The SFA last week confirmed they have informed Uefa of their interest in joining forces with Wales and the Republic of Ireland to stage a joint effort.
Bids will not be formally submitted for at least another 18 months but if successful would secure Scotland's place at the tournament as one of the host nations.
The Scots have not graced a major finals since France 98 but, as Craig Levein's men prepare for the next World Cup qualification campaign, Houston wants to see the national team earn their place among football's elite again because of their results on the park.
The Scotland assistant boss, in Florida for this weekend's friendly against the United Stated in Jacksonville, said: "You would like to qualify on merit. We are disappointed we are not in the European Championships this summer, but we have learned a lot and I think Craig, as well, has learned a lot since he took over."
Houston would be in favour of Scotland pushing ahead with the Euro 2020 bid, adding: "It would be a dream for us. Whether it can come to fruition or not, I don't know. It's certainly something we would love to see. Hopefully we've got enough stadia and hopefully it's a serious bid.
"It's something that could bring a lot of tourism and money to Scotland. It might be a big outlay at first, but it would be great to see all the top players."