DUNDALK DELIGHT AS STAUNTON BECOMES IRELAND MANAGER
FORMER LIVERPOOL STAR SUCCEEDS BRIAN KERR WITH BOBBY ROBSON AT HIS SIDE
Stephen Staunton succeeds Brian Kerr as manager of the Republic of Ireland football team.
Just short of his 37th birthday, the Dundalk man defies the bookies’ odds and his years to take over the top job, with former England boss Bobby Robson alongside him in the dug-out.
The former St. Dominic’s schoolboy player was considered an outsider for the post when Kerr was sacked last September. Odds as big as 150/1 were available.
However, he then went oddson favourite in early November but as the FAI stalled on naming their man, his price drifted again over Christmas.
However, it emerges, ahead of an official announcement, that FAI chief executive John Delaney reaches an agreement with the two men. Robson, former England and Barcelona manager, is regarded as the perfect foil to Staunton who lacks any notable experience. He is currently Paul Merson’s right-hand man at Wallsall.
While critics are already highlighting his lack of experience, there can be little doubt if the former Liverpool and Aston Villa man’s new career is even half as successful as his time as a player, then the FAI will be happy with their choice.
His first test will be a friendly against Sweden in Dublin on 1 March.
Unsurprisingly, there is widespread joy in Dundalk to what is already the worst kept secret of the year.
Gerry Gover, chairman of Dundalk Schoolboys League, describes the imminent appointment as ‘unbelieveable’, and looks forward to Stephen leading his country out on to Croke Park (Ireland is scheduled to play the first soccer match at GAA HQ in March, 2007, a European Championship qualifier against Wales).
‘I’m delighted. It’s a fantastic achievement,’ enthuses Tony O’Kane, Dundalk FC chairman.
‘I know Stephen is at an early stage of his career, but I’ve heard from many of the backroom team and the players that he is one of the best motivators around. Even in his Liverpool days he was a major presence in the dressing room.
‘He proved it again in Japan after (Roy) Keane left when he was thrown in at the deep end,’ Mr O’Kane continues.
The big news is also toasted in Castletown, home of Clan Na Gael GFC, with whom Staunton won a senior championship in 1985.
‘Stephen came into the team as a 16-year-old halfway through the league of that year and ended up top scorer,’ recalls Leslie Toal who had charge of that team with Fra Byrne.
‘He took over the frees and scored the winning goal in the final against Roche Emmets.
‘He missed the Leinster club championship match after being sent off in an U-16 game the Sunday before for which he got a month’s suspension!’
Clans chairman Aidan Kirk says everyone connected with the club is delighted.
‘He always drops down to the club, and I remember a game a couple of years ago in the depths of winter in Dromiskin when he stood in a corner on his own, looking on. That’s the sort of ordinary fella he is. You wouldn’t think he played in World Cups.’
Mr Kirk adds it’s a tremendous honour for Stephen.