Toshack approached to take over reins

WELSHMAN John Toshack has been offered the Republic of Ireland coaching job in succession to Mick McCarthy who resigned on Tuesday, according to reports in Spain.

The former Real Madrid coach has told close associates in Spain that he has been approached by the FAI with a view to taking over in January, but Toshack has asked for a week to consider the job offer However he is expected to give his decision tomorrow.

According to a source close to ToshacK who was at the helm of Wales for less than a month on a part-time basis the FAI were offering a contract until 2008, with Toshack only prepared to consider the job until the 2004 European Championship finals in Portugal as he was unwilling to commit himself to a long-term contract.