Steve Clarke's Scotland a template for next Ireland manager to follow

Scotland's approach under Steve Clarke would be a suitable template for the next Republic of Ireland management team to follow, according to Keith Treacy and Graham Gartland.

The FAI has yet to make an announcement regarding who will succeed Stephen Kenny as Boys in Green boss, although England under-21 head coach Lee Carsley remains the firm favourite for the role.

One thing that is clear is the fixture list for the year with friendlies against Belgium, Switzerland, Hungary and Portugal before tackling a difficult UEFA Nations League group featuring England, Finland and Greece in the autumn.

Speaking on the RTÉ Soccer Podcast, Treacy said he expected fellow former Ireland midfielder Carsley to get the job once contract details are hammered out and per feedback received from those of the same generation as the former Evertonian, it appears he is very much interested in the vacancy.

But beyond the identity of the next manager, Treacy and former Drogheda United captain Gartland believe the style of play and tactical approach is the most important aspect for the future after the expansive shift under Kenny failed to garner the desired results.

The duo feel a degree of pragmatism is required and pointed to how Scotland have thrived under Clarke, with the Tartan Army having qualified for Euro 2024 with aplomb.

"When Steve Clarke went in at Kilmarnock and made them really pragmatic, they were excellent but they were so hard to beat and they didn't mind that and he realised what he had," former Dundee United and St Johnstone defender Gartland said.

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