MY DREAM JOB
Former Celtic boss Neil Lennon admits that taking over as Ireland manager would be his ‘f irst choice’ at international level
NEIL LENNON has acknowledged ‘the appeal’ of the Republic of Ireland managerial vacancy, insisting the job ‘would be my first choice’ at international level.
While the former Celtic manager is on the FAI short-list to succeed Stephen Kenny at the helm, Lee Carsley, the current England U21 boss, remains first choice for the FAI head-hunters.
Speaking on Premier Sports yesterday, Lennon was guarded about his prospects as the search enters a third month.
‘I’ve been on this show before saying the job would really appeal to me,’ he said.
‘There is a process ongoing. Whether I am part of the process or not remains to be seen.
‘At the minute you’re just dealing with speculation. There are a lot of names still involved in the hat, whether Lee (Carsley) has ruled himself in or out.
‘I achieved one ambition by playing for and managing Celtic. If I was going to go down the international route, then Ireland would be my first choice really.
‘It’s a job that appeals to me. There are millions of candidates who would love a job like this.
I’ve just got to be patient and wait and see what decision they (FAI) come to.’
Talks between the FAI and Carsley stalled last week but he is still standing. Pointedly, there has not been a quote from the English FA, the FAI, or Carsley to rule him out.
FAI CEO Jonathan Hill, director of football Marc Canham, and board member Packie Bonner will deliver an update on the managerial search to the FAI board on Tuesday.
The FAI are running out of time to make an appointment in time for the Nations League draw in Paris on Thursday week.