Terry Venables insists he is still interested in coaching the Republic of Ireland.

The former England boss has gone public with his desire to take on the Irish job, though Giovanni Trapattoni is reportedly still the favoured candidate of the three-man panel appointed by the Football Association of Ireland to find Steve Staunton's replacement.

Venables told the Sunday Independent: "I'm still in the race and I still want the job and the FAI know that.

"Anyone who says I would not be fully committed to the job is talking absolute nonsense."

Former Italy and Juventus coach Trapattoni, one of the most decorated coaches in world football, is still favourite for the job but according to reports it may all hinge on his wage demands.

The panel are expected to make their recommendation to the FAI board at some stage over the next week.