John O'Shea Takes Interim Charge of Republic of Ireland

Former Manchester United defender John O’Shea has been named the interim head coach of the Republic of Ireland succeeding Stephen Kenny. O’Shea who earned 118 caps for Ireland previously served as an assistant coach under Kenny and with the Under-21 side. The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) is set to appoint Kenny’s permanent successor in early April.

O’Shea along with Crystal Palace assistant coach Paddy McCarthy will lead the team in friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland in March. O’Shea having coaching experience with Reading and Stoke City expressed pride in leading Ireland for the upcoming matches.

The FAI is finalizing the selection of Kenny’s replacement with former Wales manager Chris Coleman and England Under-21 coach Lee Carsley among the candidates. O’Shea’s interim appointment is seen as a strategic move while the permanent selection process concludes.