CAR WILL NOT REVERSE
Ireland target Lee doubles down on decision to rule himself out of job running
THE FAI will be warned that managerial target Lee Carsley is not for turning.
Abbotstown officials have remained hopeful of luring the former Ireland midfielder to the senior post, in spite of reports across the water last week that he would stay with England’s Under-21s.
And that optimism remains strong, with officials believing that they can close the deal if they remain patient and keep a line of communication open with the 40-time capped star.
However, Mirrorsport understands that Carsley has told those close to him that his mind is made up and that he is not ready to take the job at this time.
The reason for this is not yet clear but if Carsley cannot be swayed it represents a major blow for the FAI.
He has long been their number one choice to replace Stephen Kenny and Tuesday night’s board meeting at Abbotstown was, for some time, expected to herald his appointment.
However, the association’s latest monthly summit ended without a name being put to the executive for a vote.
FAI president Paul
Cooke said after the meeting: “We only got an update. It went well. We received the update quite well.
Jonathan Hill will keep the process going.
“No timeline at the moment. We will have a manager as soon as we identify the appropriate candidate and they accept that role. Numerous people have been identified.”
Chairperson Tony Keohane said: “I’d expect (an appointment) in the next short while.
“I don’t want to give you an absolute time because obviously it’s a work in progress but in the not too distant future.
“I would prefer to make no further comment on that.”
Ireland’s next games take place on March 23 and 26 against Belgium and Switzerland respectively, with both being played in Dublin.
The prospect of a pair of full houses could be hit by the struggle to secure a new manager.
Former Celtic boss Neil Lennon (inset) yesterday emerged as the new favourite for the job, ahead of Carsley, Greece manager Gus Poyet, Roy Keane, Chris Hughton and Chris Coleman.