John O'Shea named interim manager for Ireland
Former Manchester United defender John O'Shea has been named interim manager of the Republic of Ireland.
O'Shea, who played 118 times for Ireland, has been appointed by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) temporarily for upcoming friendlies in March, against Belgium and Switzerland.
It is expected that a permanent manager will be hired in early April.
He rejoins Ireland's international setup after previously serving under prior manager Stephen Kenny, and working with the under-21 team. Paddy McCarthy, recently Crystal Palace's interim manager, will also assist him during this period.
O'Shea, who once nutmegged Louis Figo, expressed delight, pride and honour at leading the national team.
Explore Bias
Media reports widely highlight O'Shea's national pride, potentially emphasising emotional appeal over technical coaching qualifications.
Repeated mentioning of the April's expected appointment of a permanent coach implies an undercurrent suggesting O'Shea's role as merely transitional, which for some may diminish the significance of an interim position.
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- "John O'Shea appointed interim head coach of Republic of Ireland" - Sky Sports
- "John O'Shea 'honoured' as Man United hero takes first step into management with Republic of Ireland" - Talksport
- "John O'Shea appointed interim Ireland manager" - Dublin Live
