Kerr back in the fold

opportunity to help bring back some of the enthusiasm that could have been lost over the last while. The fans heartily backed the last manager, Stephen Kenny, until the end.

“There’s never been a dilution of Ireland supporters towards the international team – probably a frustration around the results and not qualifying for tournaments.

“There’s no repair job to be done there but they’d like to see us winning some matches.”

Speaking to Virgin Media, Kerr continued: “If good results can be achieved in these two difficult games against top-class opposition, it will help the players’ confidence for the June friendlies and the competitive matches for the new manager.

“I’ll be going to fewer St Pat’s games for the next while but going to other games around the place to help evaluate players and give an opinion when I’m asked.”

The FAI have said that Kenny’s full-time successor will be appointed in early April.

Kerr became Ireland manager in 2003 after a highly successful spell as youth team boss, where O’shea (above) and interim assistant Paddy Mccarthy played for him.

But after exiting the senior job in 2005, Kerr was marginalised by the FAI – then under the control of former chief executive

John Delaney.

Kerr, who went on to manage the Faroe Islands, said yesterday: “This came out of the blue for me. I was surprised but am delighted to offer any assistance I can to John O’shea. We’ll see where it goes.

“Without having long discussions with anybody about the role, I’m delighted to be asked.”

Addressing his time as Ireland manager, Kerr added: “I had 33 games and three years in the job. It was an absolute honour at the time.

“But maybe it ended quicker than it should have. That’s all well in the past – it’s all about the future now and I’m happy to be involved.”

O’shea said: “Brian brings with him a wealth of experience we will be able to tap into during the camp. His passion for Irish football and the Ireland national team is well known.”