While Giovanni Trapattoni shows no signs of slowing down at 73, Birmingham City boss Chris Hughton has said he would love to manage Ireland.
Life under Trap may be a little bit dull for us supporters but you can’t argue that the man gets results. However, he is also 73 and no matter how fit he is, he won’t be around forever and the FAI need to have a few names in mind for the day he decides to hang up his whistle.
While Roy Keane is probably the most high-profile former Irish international currently out of work, it is one that is doing a fine job in the Championship who most of would like to see step in whenever Trap retires to Italy; Chris Hughton.
The good news is that Hughton would love to do the job too. After dragging Newcastle back into the Premier League in 2010, the former defender looks like he could repeat the trick with Birmingham this season.
Praised by all who have worked with him, he also has the experience of being an assistant manager during Brian Kerr’s tenure in charge of the boys in green.
And speaking in today’s Irish Sun, Hughton sounded like he would like a crack at the top job.
“I’d a terrific time with Brian Kerr,” said Hughton. “Ask any player and they’ll say the highlight of their career was playing for their country. To coach or manage your country is a great thrill. Every coach and manager would like that opportunity and I’m no different. In the future, it is something I would love to do.”
How far into the future is the worry. We expect Trap to go on for a while yet, but it’s good to know that Hughton is interested. Don’t say we didn’t you a heads up, FAI.
