Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has claimed the vacant Republic of Ireland job would “appeal” to him as he eyes a return to management.
Ireland are still searching for a successor to Stephen Kenny, who departed upon the expiration of his contract in November after failing to lead the team to Euro 2024 qualification.
Keane has been touted as an outside candidate for the role, having previously worked as part of Martin O’Neill’s coaching staff when he led the side between 2013 and 2018.
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The former midfielder – who represented his country 67 times during his playing career – has not managed since leaving Ipswich Town in January 2011, having previously led Sunderland to the Championship title in 2007 before standing down in December 2008.
During an appearance on the latest episode of The Overlap’s Stick to Football YouTube show, Keane said he enjoyed his time as part of the Ireland setup and would be open to a return to international football.
“International football, I enjoyed it when I was a coach,” Keane said when asked about the position.
“I liked the dynamics of it where you’re not in every day and it’s not about bringing players in and dealing with the board every week or the academy. Yeah, that does appeal.
“We had a little bit of success and when you’ve had a bit of success then it’s brilliant, but obviously there are disappointments. So yeah, that could be an option.”
Following a board meeting this evening, the FAI can confirm that Stephen Kenny will not continue in his role as manager of the senior men’s national team
“The Board and all at the FAI would like to sincerely thank Stephen and his staff for their hard work, professionalism and… pic.twitter.com/RX20yRDYWe
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) November 22, 2023
While Keane is eager to get back into coaching, he says any future role would have to be the right fit and allow him to concentrate purely on working with players.
“I discuss this all the time. I’ve had opportunities, but sometimes you get offered a contract and you have to look at it with self-worth, is it the right deal for you or whatever?” Keane said.
“I’d like to go back into management, but I’m not desperate to sign any contract for anybody. The off-field stuff, dealing with board members, that is tough. That can sap your energy.
“Unless you’re at a well-run club, there are those challenges off the pitch. If it was just about going in and working with the team, it would be great.”
