Staunton in gun incident

Republic of Ireland manager Steve Staunton has tonight been involved in a serious incident outside the team hotel in Portmarnock.

It is understood a man in his 30s approached Staunton holding a gun, at which point Staunton, 37, promptly turned and fled.

Staunton informed hotel staff of the situation, who in turn contacted local gardai. The assailant was eventually caught on a nearby beach.

Although no weapon has yet been found, the man, who is believed to have a history of psychiatric problems, was arrested and taken to a nearby station in Malahide.

A statement from the Football Association of Ireland read: “The FAI can confirm an incident took place outside the Republic of Ireland team hotel in Portmarnock earlier this evening.

“The matter is now being dealt with by the gardai.

“The Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Staunton is absolutely fine and looking forward to training tomorrow.”