WITH Ireland’s hopes of qualification to Euro 2024 via the group system all but over, Stephen Kenny’s future as manager appears to be hanging by a thread.
In recent weeks, a host of coaches - both experienced and beginners - have been muted with replacing the Dubliner. Whoever takes over will be faced with a challenging job.
Here we examine five contenders.....
Rafael Benitez
Rafael BenitezPerhaps surprisingly, Benitez took charge at Celta Vigo in Spain in the summer having been out of management for nearly 18 months. The LaLiga club pale in comparison to his former employers which include European giants Real Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea and Napoli.
Now 63, the Spaniard boast tremendous experience and is a Champions League winner from his time at Anfield. However, Benitez being tempted into international management with a struggling Irish side seems unlikely.
Brendan Rodgers
Brendan RodgersNot heavily linked with replacing Kenny at the Aviva Stadium, Rodgers should be one of the FAI’s main targets. Having returned to Celtic for a second stint after leaving Leicester City, the Antrim native’s career is at a crossroads and a job in international football may appeal to him.
Not only does the 50-year-old possess vast experience from his time at Liverpool, he also teaches his teams to play the expansive and possession based game the FAI desires. His track record of improving players is attractive considering the current squad centres heavily on young players.
Roy Keane
Roy KeaneHaving captained Manchester United for a decade - lifting 17 trophies in the process - there’s little doubt Keane would harness a winning mentality and inspire the current group of players to believe in themselves
However, a controversial figure in his time as a player and assistant manager, the Cork native’s appointment would raise a few eyebrows. Would the FAI be able to forget his antics at the 2002 World Cup or his clashes with first-team players whilst Martin O’Neill’s second-in-command? Such volatility would need to be taken into account.
Neil Lennon
Neil LennonLong linked with the manager’s job at Lansdowne Road, Lennon would likely make a popular appointment owing to his success with Celtic.
The former Northern Ireland star’s best spells as manager have come with the Glasgow giants where he won five league titles between 2011 and 2020.
However, the 52-year-old has been out of work since being sacked by Cypriot side Omonia last year and endured a topsy turvy spell at Bolton Wanderers some years ago which damages his case for the job.
Lee Carsley
Lee CarsleyIf reports are to be believed, Carsley is the leading candidate for the role due to his success with young players and links to Irish football.
The FAI admire the 49-year-old’s work with England’s under-21 side where led the Three Lions to European Championship glory earlier this year.
Although he lacks the aura of a Keane or Damien Duff, he would garner the respect of the dressing room and have little difficulty forming a backroom team with ex-players having made 40 caps for the Boys in Green.
