Former Ireland captain Roy Keane has insisted the idea of a partnership between him and the Irishman could become a reality.
The well-known Cork native is one of a number of names linked with the role since former manager Stephen Kenny was given his marching orders by the FAI.
Mr Martin O’Neill and Mr Keane were in charge of management affairs in Ireland’s previous government. The highlight of their run was reaching Euro 2016, but they missed the 2018 World Cup in Russia and were ultimately released in 2018.
Keane was asked on the Stick to Football podcast how he felt about returning to the dugout as a number one rather than number two.
“Yes, I enjoyed international football when I was coaching there,” Keane said on the podcast.
“I like the dynamics of this game where you’re not involved every day and it’s not about bringing in players every week and dealing with the board and the academy.
“That appeals to me, I liked the dynamic when I was coaching with Martin on the Ireland team.
“We’ve had a little bit of success. And when you have a little bit of success, it’s great, but obviously you can also be disappointed. That might be an option.”
Another name in contention is fellow former Ireland international Chris Houghton.
Houghton was sacked by the Ghana Football Association this week after finishing bottom of their African Cup of Nations group.
Born to a Ghanaian father and an Irish mother, Hughton enjoyed a distinguished playing career as a full-back, winning 53 caps for the Irish national team from 1979 to 1991.
He moved into management and managed clubs such as Newcastle United, Brighton & Hove Albion, Norwich City and Nottingham Forest. As a manager he achieved remarkable success, taking Newcastle United to the Premier League and Birmingham City to the play-offs, before achieving similar feats at Brighton & Hove Albion.
It could be Keene, Horton, or someone else. Let’s see how it goes.
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has announced its intention to appoint a replacement ahead of Ireland’s scheduled double-header in March, against Belgium on Saturday 23rd March and Switzerland on Tuesday 26th March. expressed.
