John Fallon: Ireland trumps them all with the art of the deal

Ballot chicanery, the Son of Jack, Alex Ferguson denials, mystery benefactors, kingmakers, Saipan rapprochement and succession planning are just some of terms worthy of entry into the lexicon of Irish managerial appointments. And there's always Philippe Troussier.

A composite image of Giovanni Trapattoni during his time as Republic of Ireland manager. Pic: Sportsfile

This will be one instance when the modern FAI won’t be lambasted for reverting to old habits.

From 1985 in the case of Jack Charlton to Giovanni Trapattoni all of 23 years later, five Ireland managers in a row were announced in the first six weeks of the calendar year.