Carl O'Malley hears the new Republic of Ireland management team's plans to restore the fear factor in Irish football - just like the good old days

The entrance had a swagger and confidence that belied the nervous introduction that followed.

Steve "Stan" Staunton and his "international football consultant" strode purposefully towards the rostrum to greet assembled media for the first time this morning in a manner that bore all the hallmarks of a key witness taking to the stand, safe in the knowledge that he is doing the right thing.

The Lucozade Sport adorning the table was a clear indication that the FAI expected a marathon session ahead. The four new boys confronted those who have relentlessly analysed and picked holes in their appointments over the past week, while they had remained silent.

There were brief introductions from FAI sorts. Chief executive John Delaney took to the floor as the strobe effect continued unabated around Staunton and Bobby Robson.  Goalkeeping coach Alan Kelly and head coach Kevin MacDonald were not ignored, but the real focus was on the newlyweds in the centre.

When the flashing subsided the most capped player in Ireland's history told of how proud he felt to be sitting where he was.  He described managing the Republic of Ireland as the "ultimate honour".  He reminisced on better times, when stadia were painted green and the opposition were similarly envious.

He spoke of "frightened" opponents in places like the Giants Stadium in 1994, and the "respect" earned from such days. "That's something I want to bring back."

His shaky opening confirmed, as most knew, that he is not at his best when in the spotlight, but the sentiment was unmistakable.  His words faltered but his steely glare never flinched when he declared: "I’m the boss, the gaffer and at the end of the day ultimately the buck stops here with me."

His faith in those who flanked him was evident and they nodded in agreement as he spoke of the drive required of those who played for Ireland. "I played with passion. The one thing that any player can give is passion."

"None other than Bobby Robson" was sitting to his left, and he was there at the manager's request.  "It was my decision and I am delighted he has come with me."

The message was a clear one. Sort of. This team is moving forward, but with all the hallmarks of the good ol' days.  Brian Kerr's campaign was conspicuous by its absence.  His predecessors were mentioned alongside words like "drive", "passion" and "teamwork", but Kerr's Ireland was a different "in the past" and not to be reflected on here.

His mentor may be getting on, but they are both "old school".

Robson pitched in, as he always has done.  He trotted out some more teamwork talk and an "us-against-the-world" mentality, but he meant it, and was the one person for whom a microphone was not necessary.  He may be twice the age of his new "boss" but he echoed him - and occasionally himself - loudly and proudly.

His job is to guide, groom and impart in whatever way necessary.  Nobody seems to know exactly how, or when, but the impression is that his phone will always be switched on.

He did not pretend to know Stan well, and cynics may suggest that he may not know him at all in a week, but he knows how to win over an audience in a way Staunton does not.

He too spoke of the "history" that was failure in qualification for Germany 2006.  He oozed honesty in reassurances such as his insistence that he did not covet his neighbour's job.  He acknowledged the difficulty of tackling qualification for Euro 2008 as fourth seeds, but said he will give the manager "everything he has got" to succeed.

Both spoke of casting the net wider in the search for players and untapped talent.  The "granny rule" is definitely on the agenda ,and it will mean a knock on the door, from Robson probably, of Bolton captain Kevin Nolan.  Stephen Carr will be getting a call too, despite announcing his retirement before his thirties.

No box will be left unchecked in the search for new players and emerging talent.  Even the Eircom League will have its own watchman.  Staunton's aim is to bring in players who share his desire.  The aforementioned Nolan, whose league form has been top class of late, will therefore not be hounded if he is anything less than whole-hearted when approached.

Staunton grew into his role as the morning turned to afternoon. He joked of bamboozling the opposition in Croke Park when asked what brand of football he wants to play. Robson offered reassurance that he would accompany his protegè if he is approached by a fictitious wealthy sheikh - the media stunt that befell England manager Sven Goran-Eriksson recently.

The shake in Staunton's voice was replaced by good vibrations as he received the backing of a fans' spokesman who infiltrated the gathering.  His glowing tribute to a fan favourite was warmly welcomed by Staunton and Robson.  "I like you sir," declared the latter.

It was an unscheduled (we presume) interruption that typified the theme of the day.  All the while the message was one of unity.  Fans, players, coaching staff and suits were all part of the effort.  Only Robson was brave enough to refer to the media as a part of that fraternity.  "We need to breed good relations with the press," he said. "We know how important you are, in fact, you can be our spokesman to the fans." Surely nobody with such experience can be so naive.

No. Naive is not a word that could describe Robson. And, as uncomfortable as he seemed at first, Staunton's resilience as a player looks like it may be mirrored in management.

The most controversial appointments in the FAI's history have been dissected by the media for a week now and on the first occasion the subjects get to answer all the questions that have been asked in that time, they passed with distinction.

Only time will tell whether this team will have the clout to get the job done, but as it stands, its not a bad start.  The agenda here was to disarm the media of loaded questions and "experience" queries. To outline what will make up for the lack of know-how on the manager's part and how two heads can work as one.  To get a fair crack at the job.

Phase one complete so.