Frank in the frame for Ireland manager’s job

FRANK Stapleton last night threw his hat into the ring as a candidate to become the next Republic of Ireland manager.

Stapleton, who won 71 caps for the Republic between 1977 and 1990, revealed he would consider the role if approached by the FAI.

"As soon as I know what's going to happen I'll sit down and certainly consider it," he revealed.

"Obviously being an Irishman I've got great pride in the team and the supporters are great. I'd consider either coaching or managing.

"Initially I'd probably go for the manger's job," he told Sky Sports News.

"I was in for it last time, so I'm looking to consider it again.

"It's a challenge anybody who takes it on will realise that fairly quickly. Without doubt there's potential in Irish football from junior level all the way up.

"It'll be a real challenge this time as the manager knows he has to rebuild the team again."

Stapleton's management CV includes a three-year stint as player-manager of Bradford City and a spell in the US in charge of New England Revolution.

More recently the ex-Arsenal and Manchester United legend has been on the books of Bolton Wanderers as a striker coach.