John O'Shea named as Ireland coach for upcoming friendlies

The FAI has appointed John O'Shea as interim head coach for the upcoming friendlies in March.

The former Ireland defender will take charge of Ireland on a temporary basis for friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland in March. He will be joined by Paddy McCarthy as his assistant coach during this international window.

O'Shea will rejoin the Ireland coaching set up, having been an assistant coach under Stephen Kenny and worked as the U21 assistant manager to Jim Crawford.

As a player, O'Shea won 118 caps for his country, and is third in all time appearances.

O'Shea's most recent coaching experience in club football was with Birmingham City in the championship, where he worked alongside Wayne Rooney.

The FAI said in a statement it plans to name a permanent successor to Kenny in early April.

Speaking on his appointment, O'shea said "I’m delighted to return to the senior men’s coaching staff as interim head coach for the two international friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland.

“It will be an incredible honour to lead the side into the March international window. As everyone will know, I’ve always had immense pride representing my country, whether that be during my playing career or very recently, as part of the coaching staff for the men’s senior team and the under-21s.

“It’s great that Paddy has agreed to come on board for the two matches and work will begin straight away to prepare for two top-quality fixtures against great opposition in Belgium and Switzerland, in front of our fantastic home support.

“I’ve got great belief in this group of players to win football matches and looking forward to some positive results.”