Former Manchester United Defender, John O’Shea Appointed Interim Head Coach Of Republic Of Ireland
Ex-Manchester United defender, John O’Shea has been appointed interim manager of the Republic of Ireland.
The 42-year-old, who won 118 caps for the Republic, was an assistant coach under previous manager Stephen Kenny and with the Under-21 side.
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has also confirmed Kenny’s permanent replacement will be appointed in “early April”.
O’Shea will lead the team in the friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland in March and will be supported by Crystal Palace assistant coach Paddy McCarthy.
The former Sunderland defender had coaching spells with Reading and Stoke City before joining former Manchester United team-mate Wayne Rooney’s backroom team at Birmingham City.
He left the Championship club in January following Rooney’s dismissal as head coach.
O’Shea, who retired from playing in 2019, made it known that it will be an “incredible honour” to lead the Republic in next month’s friendlies.
“I’ve always had immense pride representing my country, whether that be during my playing career or as part of the coaching staff,” said O’Shea, who won five Premier League titles and a Champions League during 12 years at Old Trafford.
“It’s great Paddy has agreed to come on board for the two matches and work will begin straight away to prepare for two top-quality fixtures against great opposition in front of our fantastic home support.
“I’ve got great belief in this group of players.”
