Dion Fanning: John O’Shea can bring an interim peace in Irish football's endless battle

O’Shea’s great gifts have always been a presence of mind and a calmness that allowed him to take all challenges in his stride.

CALMING INFLUENCE: Republic of Ireland interim head coach John O'Shea brings a peaceful break to Ireland's search for the next permanent manager. Pic: Stephen McCarthy, Sportsfile

PG Wodehouse said it wasn’t difficult to distinguish between a “Scotsman with a grievance and a ray of sunshine”. The same might be said of the beleaguered Irish football supporter.

Times are always tough; dissatisfaction is forever increasing while the mood in the camp is never far from being volatile.