Andy Townsend has turned down an offer by the FAI to be part of three-man advisory committee who will assist in finding Steve Staunton's successor.

The former Irish international, who has already ruled himself out of any coaching role within the new management team, confirmed he would play no part of the headhunting exercise.

Townsend had previously been linked to an assistant manager role alongside strong favourite for the post, Terry Venables.

Although there is much speculation surrounding the whole process of finding a new manager, it is believed Don Givens and Don Howe, who has worked with Venables during his tenure as England manager, have both been approached by the FAI to join the three-man headhunting committee.

Last night's FAI statement expressed a desire to have the new manager in place by the Brazil friendly in February, but stressed getting the right man rather than timing is the priority.

"While the Board considers it preferable to have a new manager in place before the February friendly with Brazil it will be emphasised to the recruitment panel that making the best possible appointment is the priority for Irish football," the statement read.