John O'Shea on missing a call from old boss Alex Ferguson as he takes Ireland reins

The former Man Utd says Fergie is often in contact with words of encouragement.

FRESH START: Newly appointed interim head coach John O'Shea. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

His rise to being decision-maker may be fleeting for now but John O’Shea will have the first-hand advice of Alex Ferguson to call on before he picks his first-ever team next month.

O’Shea’s former Manchester United boss followed a familiar ritual last week once he heard of the Waterfordman stepping into the cavity created by the elongated pursuit of a permanent Ireland boss.