'Amazing honour' - John O'Shea fully focused on Belgium and Switzerland fixtures

John O'Shea is not looking beyond the upcoming games against Belgium and Switzerland as he begins his tenure as interim head coach of the Republic of Ireland.

The former Manchester United man will take charge of the national side for this month’s friendly double-header before the FAI confirms the permanent candidate next month.

And while O’Shea’s focus is firmly eyeing the two immediate games, he would not rule out remaining involved with the new-look regime going into the summer games and beyond to the Nations League campaign, which starts in September.

It’s a case of "we’ll see what happens" for O’Shea who also spoke about his pride and honour in managing his national side for the upcoming matches.

"My focus only is on these two games, Belgium and Switzerland," said O’Shea, speaking to the media for the first time since his recent appointment.

"What an amazing honour to get a chance to manage my country. When I got the message from Marc a few days ago, just over a week ago, an amazing feeling, very proud obviously… [from] helping out with the 21s and being involved with the senior team, and then having the chance to build a coaching staff quite quickly, and prepare for two high profile friendly games at the Aviva with hopefully a big support behind us, it’s an amazing feeling and I can’t wait for it to come around really."

O’Shea revealed that he has spoken to the FAI regarding the future and while he admitted that he is always "up for the conversation", he added that it will have to wait until the March fixtures are completed.

"That’s something for further down the line," said O’Shea. "At the minute I’ve been given a chance to lead the team for the friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland.

"Going forward, who knows. I have