scepticalEAMON DUNPHY HAS voiced his support for Martin O’Neill as Ireland manager as it appears the Derry native is set for a Monday unveiling by the FAI.
It has been widely reported that O’Neill will be confirmed as Ireland manager, with Newstalk’s Off the Ball show revealing that an official announcement is imminent. The FAI should also name former Manchester United and Ireland midfielder Roy Keane as O’Neill’s assistant.
Speaking this evening on RTÉ’s Saturday Sport show, Dunphy gave a positive reaction when asked if O’Neill was the right man to lead the Irish footballers.
Dunphy said, “From what I understand [O'Neill] is committed now. He was holding out for Newcastle United or a bigger job.” He added, “I hope it is settled. I hope he is committed to the job and I hope he is.”
Dunphy, who was capped 23 times for Ireland, was less sure about appointing Keane. The pair have enjoyed a tempestuous relationship that has veered from on-screen criticisms to Dunphy ghosting Keane’s autobiography and back again. “It’ll be fun,” Dunphy remarked when asked what to expect if Keane is confirmed as O’Neill’s number two.
“I want to go to the press conferences,” he added. The FAI, he declared, would have to clearly set out the roles and responsibilities both men would have. “Who will take the training sessions out at Malahide?” he mused.
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