Former Manchester United defender is interim Republic of Ireland coach

Former Manchester United defender John O’Shea has been appointed interim head coach 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.

Kenny left the role in November after failing to qualify for Euro 2024.

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, said 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.”

FAI director of football Marc Canham said last week that the organisation was “getting closer” to appointing Kenny’s successor.

Ex-Wales manager Chris Coleman was among the leading candidates for the role, having held talks with the FAI, but he is no longer in contention for the job.

England Under-21 coach Lee Carsley, a former Republic of Ireland midfielder, and ex-Celtic manager Neil Lennon have also been linked with the post.

However, BBC Sport understands Lennon has been told by the FAI he will not be their next manager.

While confirming O’Shea’s interim appointment, Canham said he was “pleased” that the process to find Kenny’s replacement was “nearing completion”.

“John has developed a strong level of excellent coaching experience across both domestic and international football and has recently been involved at both Under-21 and senior level with Ireland alongside his considerable achievements as an international player and in his club career,” said Canham.

“John knows this group of players extremely well and with the support and expertise of Paddy, we believe this team are the right choice for the interim period.”

The Republic, who won just six out of 29 competitive matches under Kenny, face Belgium in Dublin on 23 March before hosting the Swiss three days later.