'Not the right time' - Georgia manager Sagnol dismisses possibility of taking over Ireland

Sagnol’s brush back is just the latest in a long line of contenders ruling themselves out.

Georgia manager Willy Sagnol. Picture: Jane Barlow/PA Wire.

Willy Sagnol has distanced himself from a potential appointment as the next Republic of Ireland manager as the Frenchman prepares to lead Georgia into their historic major tournament debut on Tuesday night.

Former France and Bayern Munich defender Sagnol has been considered one of the most likely answers to the FAI’s interminable search for a permanent replacement for Stephen Kenny. As recently as this week he remained 2/1 joint favourite to take the job, alongside interim manager John O’Shea.