Now that the dust has settled on Giovanni Trapattoni’s departure, what is the current state of play with the leading contenders for the post?
JOE has a brief look at where things stand for the FAI at the moment, while Trap is already looking to get back in the game.
The Mart money on O’Neill
Still the out and out favourite to step into Trap’s shoes is Martin O’Neill. As low as 1/2 with some bookies, the former Celtic and Aston Villa manager is said to be keen on the role according to some sources, with the FAI thought to be about to sound him out officially over the coming days.
Many of today’s papers believe that the management committee have O’Neill as their leading choice and with the news that Denis O’Brien will put his money where his mouth is again and allow the FAI bring the 61 year-old in as boss. That meeting will take place next Monday or Tuesday and Martin should keep his phone close by him.
Is Brian lying?
Currently the second favourite, the current Leeds United boss Brian McDermott today distanced himself from the post. McDermott, who has Irish parents and revealed last year he is a Sligo Rovers fan, only took over the reins at Elland Road in April on a three year deal and has claimed that the Ireland job isn’t on his radar. For now.
“One day I want to manage Republic of Ireland,” said McDermott. “But I’m at a fantastic club. I owe them and the supporters. I’m committed 100 per cent.”
So that’s his way of saying if the offer is right, he’ll go, but otherwise he’ll be keeping the passionate Leeds supporters happy.
Chris Hughton is another linked with the job, but as of yet the club and Hughton himself have remained tight-lipped. He has made no secret of his desire to one day manage his country and has experience as assistant manager for the Boys in Green, but things are looking rosy at the moment at Carrow Road for the former Irish international.
Asked Chris Hughton in May if he would like the #Ireland job – he said he’s happy & focused on #NCFC but it’s something he wants in future.
— Rob Brennan (@RobBrennan82) September 12, 2013
Trap out of Africa?
While Trap and his backroom team will fly off into the sunset with a golden handshake, it appears like they may have helped the Association out financially. Sacking the Italian was said to have cost the FAI €900,000, but a severance package agreed at Dublin Airport yesterday saw both parties come to a compromise of a fee believed to be in the region of €450,000.
With his windfall, he may again brush up on his languages as rumours are abound that Trap may be about to take over an African national side. Last week the manager spoke of the possibility of working at the World Cup in Brazil even if Ireland didn’t qualify, while he has been linked to a number of national sides over the past 24 hours.
Was told last Sunday that Trapattoni was taking the Libyan National Team job. Didn’t believe it at first, but seems to be going ahead!
— Adam Bouskouchi (@AdamOneSM) September 12, 2013
Libya wouldn’t have a great tradition of attractive football, but Trap may just bring the steel and organisation to raise them from their current standing of 69th in the world.
