The worst kept secret in football in recent days has been confirmed with today’s announcement that Steve Staunton will take charge of the Republic of Ireland senior team. And because of his lack of managerial experience, he will be assisted by Bobby Robson, who takes on the role as 'international football consultant'.
Staunton's backroom team includes Kevin MacDonald as coach, with the 45-year-old retaining his role as Aston Villa reserve-team manager, and former Republic number one Alan Kelly as goalkeeping coach.
The Football Association of Ireland's (FAI) decision ends a three-month search after opting not to renew Brian Kerr's contract following his failure to guide Ireland to this summer's World Cup finals.
A number of high-profile names had previously been linked with the vacancy, notably Martin O'Neill, Sir Alex Ferguson and Terry Venables. But the FAI have instead opted for an unlikely double act in Staunton - Ireland's most-capped player with 102 appearances - and Robson.
"I’m delighted and proud to be appointed Irish international team manager," said the former captain. "I know that the calibre of the team I have will bring a huge range of experience and talent to the challenges that lie ahead, I can’t wait to get started."
"I hope that the drive, passion and commitment that we have can reflect the Irish fans’ real love for the game and have an impact not just on the squad but on the nation."
Robson, 73, said: "I am really looking forward to working with the new manager and his team. Stephen’s record and reputation speak for themselves and I am delighted to help and advise Stephen in any way he sees fit."
"I am totally confident that Irish international team has a really bright future," added the former England and Newcastle boss.
Staunton, 37, has been regarded as a hero by supporters through his 13-year international career that included three World Cups. He is also the only player to have played all of Ireland’s World Cup Finals matches to date. However, news of his impending appointment this past week has been met with a lukewarm response, most questioning the FAI’s decision to lay so much responsibility with someone with little to no managerial experience.
That said, FAI chief executive John Delaney is confident the duo can deliver. "Stephen has impressed people for many years with his attitude, commitment, dedication and his unrivalled knowledge of the dressing room. He is highly respected, a natural motivator and I am confident he will make an excellent manager."
"Bobby brings a magnificent wealth of experience to his role as advisor in addition to his renowned passion and enthusiasm for the game," added Delaney. "His knowledge, experience and advice will be a valuable asset to Stephen. The combination of talents, experience, knowledge, motivational skills and passion which this team brings to the management of the senior squad is utterly compelling."
Details of Staunton’s financial package are as yet unknown but it is expected to be more than the €400,000 a year Kerr was reportedly paid by the Association. The Louthman has been appointed on a four-year contract, with Robson handed a two-year deal that will be reviewed after that.
Staunton and his backroom staff will hold their first press conference next Monday at 11.00am in the Round Room at the Mansion House, Dawson Street in Dublin.
Their first official engagement will be at the Euro 2008 Championship qualifying draw in Montreux, Switzerland, on January 27th. Ireland's demise under Kerr last year has means they are among the fourth-seeded nations, potentially facing a tough qualifying fixture list.
For now, Staunton and Robson have just 46 days to prepare for their first match, with Sweden due at Lansdowne Road for a friendly on March 1st.
additional reporting by PA
