Three former North East managers are in contention to replace Stephen Kenny as Republic of Ireland boss. Roy Keane Steve Bruce and Sam Allardyce are among the bookmakers’ favourites following Kenny’s dismissal in midweek.
The 52-year-old spent three years in the hot seat and his contract was not expected to be renewed after failing to qualify for Euro 2024. A lacklustre 1-1 draw at home against New Zealand also mounted pressure on the IFA to make a swift decision.
The rumour mill is now churning, with Celtic legend Neil Lennon and England under-21 coach Lee Carsley leading the pack. But there is also interest from several former Newcastle United and Sunderland managers.
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Ex-Black Cats boss Keane has previously revealed his desire to return to management. The 52-year-old last managed in 2011 but was assistant to Martin O’Neill with Ireland for five years until 2018.
Paddy Power price him at 15/8, in third place behind Lennon and Carsley. Bruce, who managed both Newcastle and Sunderland, already expressed interest in the job earlier this week and he is a 10/1 outsider.
“I'm looking to get back into football,” he said. “Whether that's an international job, a director of football, an assistant to an up-and-coming manager, or a consultation role.
“I'm open to anything as I miss the game. International management would appeal to me at my age but I find speculation (about the Ireland job) disrespectful while a manager is in place. Once the manager position is free, then they (FAI) can give me a call.”
Allardyce, another who crossed the Tyne-Wear divide in his career, is a long shot at 20/1. One game with England is all “Big Sam” has managed at international level and he has been out of work since a brief spell at Leeds United last season.
