Former Celtic manager Neil Lennon has insisted he is happy to discuss the vacant Ireland squad, but paid tribute to the ongoing process of finding a replacement for Stephen Kenny.
The FAI has been searching for a replacement since sacking Kenny in November. The organization confirmed its intention to hire someone ahead of the Ireland game scheduled for March.
Belgium will visit Dublin in the first of two friendlies on March 23 with a 5pm kick-off, followed by Switzerland three days later with a 7.45pm kick-off.
Several candidates have been linked with the Ireland manager’s job, including Chris Hughton, Roy Keane, Anthony Barry and former Celtic manager Neil Lennon.
Lennon, 52, last managed Cyprus First Division side Omonia over a year ago but is now keen to return to the role. The Northern Irishman is attracted to his job in Ireland, but says he will wait and see how things go.
“The Ireland vacancy is definitely something we want to talk about,” Lennon said. “I think there’s a process going on at the moment, but listen, it’s great to be tied to work.
Neil Lennon will consider Ireland job“That’s appealing to me. We’ll just have to wait and see. I’m sure they’ll take their time and make a decision. I don’t think they’ll play again until March, so if that’s the case. They will have enough time to consider the candidates.
“But it’s certainly nice to have my name on it. We’ll see if it develops.”
John Lennon’s allegiance to Northern Ireland is certain to emerge if he wins the job there. Lennon has played 40 games for North Korea and will undoubtedly be questioned.
Asked if he would be open to moving south to somewhere like Dublin, the former Celtic manager and player said he would “not mind” moving there, citing previous moves during his career. Ta.
“I wouldn’t mind moving to Ireland,” said the Lurgan man. “I went to Cyprus for a year and it was definitely a big cultural change. My son was taking important exams at the time and I didn’t want him to be expelled from school, so I went to Cyprus by myself. Ta.
“So, again, if I go to Ireland or abroad again, I have no problem.”My son is now a full-time player for St Mirren, so he has need to protect their careers. Mom will be right behind him with it.
“So I don’t really have a problem with where I move. In fact, if it’s the right job and the right kind of project that I want to take on, I’d be happy to move.”
