Man Utd cult hero John O’Shea lands first managerial role but he might only have two games to impress
MANCHESTER UNITED legend John O’Shea has been named as interim manager of the Republic of Ireland.
The 42-year-old previously served on Stephen Kenny’s coaching staff before the latter was sacked in November.
John O’Shea has been named as Republic of Ireland’s interim managerSportsfile
Now he has been handed a temporary promotion to the top job but could have just two matches to convince the FAI that he deserves it full-time.
O’Shea will lead his country in the March friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland before the FAI names a permanent successor to Kenny in April.
The star, who won 118 caps for Ireland and was a Champions League winner at United, will be assisted by fellow ex-Irish defender Paddy McCarthy in his new role.
O’Shea said: “I’m delighted to return to the senior men’s coaching staff as interim head coach for the two international friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland.
“It will be an incredible honour to lead the side into the March international window.
“As everyone will know, I’ve always had immense pride representing my country, whether that be during my playing career or very recently, as part of the coaching staff for the men’s senior team and the Under-21s.”
McCarthy currently works for Crystal Palace as an assistant coach.
He made over 130 appearances for the Eagles during his playing career and has twice been caretaker manager of the Premier League club.
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O’Shea added: “It’s great that 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 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 looking forward to some positive results.”
O’Shea came through United’s academy to become a vital member of Sir Alex Ferguson’s side.
He won five Premier League titles and the Champions League and was renowned for playing in a number of different positions.
Despite being recognised as a centre-half, he also played both full-back positions and midfield as he became the ultimate utility man while winning 14 major honours with the Red Devils.
Remarkably O’Shea, who hit the headlines after an awkward moment at the Europa League draw last week, even kept a clean sheet after going in goal in February 2007.
That was after an injury to keeper Edwin van der Sar in a 4-0 win at Tottenham.
After finishing his playing career with Sunderland and Reading, he has since began coaching and worked with the Royals, Stoke City, Birmingham as well as his recent roles with Ireland’s senior team and U21s.
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GettyThe Man Utd legend will take charge of the March friendlies[/caption]
PAPaddy McCarthy will assist O’Shea against Belgium and Switzerland[/caption]
