Stephen Kenny’s reign as Ireland manager came to an abrupt end after they failed to qualify for the 2024 European Championship in Germany.
Ireland have been searching for a new manager since last November and are reportedly set to name Kenny’s replacement soon.
Lee Carsley is a prime candidate for the job after leading England to European U21 Championship glory last summer.
However, Carsley is seemingly intent on continuing in his current role. His former teammate Shay Given believes he would be an excellent option, but does not think he will take the job.
“It’s my understanding that it is not going to be Lee Carsley,” Given said on RTE’s Champions League coverage on Tuesday night. “Maybe not now, but maybe in the future, Lee might be interested.”
Like most Irish football fans, Given has been weighing up the options for the Irish job. The other shortlisted names include Neil Lennon, Gus Poyet and Chris Coleman.
With friendlies coming up next month and the UEFA Nations League around the corner, the Football Associate of Ireland (FAI) need someone in place soon.
Carsley is Still the Favourite
Carsley has not given any inclination that he would jump ship, but betting sites in Ireland still have him as their favourite to take the job.
Former Celtic boss Neil Lennon is also a top contender, while Gus Poyet is another name in the mix. He is currently the manager of Greece, but has been strongly linked with Ireland.
The top Irish betting apps rate him as an 11.00 shot to be appointed, while former Wales coach Chris Coleman and ex-Ghana boss Chris Hughton are also the running.
- Lee Carsley – 1.90
- Neil Lennon – 2.62
- Gus Poyet – 11.00
- Chris Coleman – 15.00
- Chris Houghton – 17.00
- Anthony Barry – 26.00
- Scott Parker – 29.00
- Roy Keane – 34.00
- Brian Barry-Murphy – 34.00
- Damien Duff – 34.00
- Sam Allardyce – 34.00
- Gary Rowett – 34.00
- Steve Bruce – 34.00
Carsley is the Ideal Man for the Job
Given has cast doubt about Carsley’s eagerness to take the job, but the FAI cannot afford to lose sight of the fact that he is the best candidate for the job.
Carsley’s perceived reluctance is understandable, but the FAI must convince him. He brings a winning mentality to the table and would help develop Ireland’s core of young players.
The FAI must offer him a competitive contract, address his concerns and show him the potential to lead a passionate nation back to the big stage.
Lennon carries baggage from his recent underwhelming managerial stints. Despite declaring his interest in the job, his uninspiring final days at Celtic are a black mark on his record.
Poyet’s recent success with Greece makes him a tempting choice. He should be the next option on the list if getting Carsley is impossible.
He has Greece in contention for a place at Euro 2024, recording 1.84 points per match. Poyet is a fiery man who could spark the fire this Irish team needs.
However, Carsley already understands Irish football having represented the country as a player between 1997 and 2008.
Roy Keane’s passion is undeniable, but his managerial record is patchy. His personality can be divisive and his overly fiery approach may not mesh with the current squad.
Carsley is more pragmatic. He is tactically flexible and knows how to get the best out of his players with good man management. These qualities are crucial for international football.
Coleman’s success with Wales was impressive, but a poor stint with Sunderland was followed by an even more unfortunate spell with Hebei China Fortune.
Ireland cannot afford to wait. Football is about seizing opportunities, and Carsley is a prime opportunity for the Emerald Isle.
The FAI must be decisive and bring him on board. The Boys in Green deserve a talented manager and Carsley is the perfect fit.
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