Walsall say Stan the man to take over Ireland job

STEVE STAUNTON has got the green light to manage the Republic of Ireland - but the FAI has yet to come calling.

Staunton, currently a player-coach at Walsall - although he has not played since the end of August due to injury - is currently being mentioned as a potential successor to Brian Kerr as Republic boss.

First choice Martin O’Neill has made it clear he remains committed to tending to wife Geraldine, who is fighting cancer, while David O’Leary has insisted Aston Villa is his priority at present.

It means the FAI, with time on their side as the Republic’s next match is likely to be a friendly in February, can sift through the prospective candidates at leisure.

Staunton, a stalwart, reliable figure during his playing days for Ireland, winning 102 caps - 16 as captain - and scoring nine goals, would be a popular choice.

Although the 36-year-old lacks experience in managerial terms, he has the personality the FAI are looking for, and as he only hung up his international playing boots just three years ago, would also command immediate respect among the current squad.

Walsall manager Paul Merson highlighted that fact, and has made it clear he will not stand in Staunton’s way should the FAI make an approach.

“He is respected in Ireland, and I think the fans would want it,” said Merson. “He would be a good choice by the FAI, but he hasn’t heard anything, and that’s the thing. Although we talk about it every morning because it’s in the papers.

“I’d be one of the first to know if there was anything because it would be up to me to let him go. But I’d back him. Everybody who plays football would love to manage their country one day, so if it came along, then of course I’d let him go. No worries about that.”

The FAI are maintaining a deadpan line, confirming nothing.