Former Manchester United defender John O’Shea has been appointed the Republic of Ireland’s interim manager ahead of next month’s friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland.
The Irish Football Association (FAI) have been searching for a new boss since Stephen Kenny departed at the end of his contract last November, having failed to lead the team to Euro 2024 qualification.
The likes of Paul Clement and Lee Carsley have been linked with the role, while former captain and assistant manager Roy Keane suggested he might be interested in January.
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However, with the FAI yet to make an appointment, United great O’Shea – who won 118 caps for Ireland between 2001 and 2018 – will oversee their upcoming friendlies in Dublin.
O’Shea previously served as part of Kenny’s backroom staff, and he will be joined in the dugout by Paddy McCarthy, who will serve as his assistant for the March international break.
O’Shea said: “I’m delighted to return to the senior men’s coaching staff as interim head coach for the two international friendlies.
FAI appoint John O’Shea as Interim Head Coach of the Men’s National Team 🇮🇪
O’Shea, who has 118 caps for Ireland, will take charge of the two international friendlies in March against Belgium and Switzerland at the Aviva Stadium, assisted by Paddy McCarthy 💚
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) FEBRUARY 28, 2024
“Work will begin straight away to prepare for two top-quality fixtures against great opposition in Belgium and Switzerland, in front of our fantastic home support.
“I’ve got great belief in this group of players to win football matches and I’m looking forward to some positive results.”
As part of Wednesday’s announcement, FAI Director of Football Marc Canham also confirmed a permanent appointment should be finalised in April.
In a statement, Canham said: “We’re also pleased to confirm that the process for the appointment of a new men’s head coach is near completion and we are looking forward to announcing that appointment in April.
“For now, the focus is on the upcoming matches against Belgium and Switzerland at the Aviva Stadium and supporting John and his team as they prepare for the games.”
An incredible honour 💚 PIC.TWITTER.COM/IBKUYUFPGX
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) FEBRUARY 28, 2024
