John O’Shea confirmed as Ireland interim boss for June friendlies – but Brian Kerr not available

John O’Shea will again take charge of Ireland on an interim basis for the June friendlies against Hungary and Portugal.

Last week the former Manchester United defender refused to rule out the idea of taking interim charge again this summer and with the FAI’s long search for a manager now set to extend past that juncture, the association have this morning confirmed that O’Shea will assume the hot seat again.

O’Shea said that last week, director of football Marc Canham asked him about taking temporary charge again for the June window, with Ireland set to play Hungary at home on June 4 before they face Portugal away in Aveiro on June 11.

Assistant coaches Paddy McCarthy and Glenn Whelan will both continue in their roles for the June window, as will goalkeeping coach Rene Gilmartin, however Brian Kerr will not be a part of the interim backroom staff due to prior commitments. Analyst Stephen Rice and athletic performance coach Damien Doyle will also be kept on for the June window.

Having led Ireland to a draw against Belgium before suffering a 1-0 defeat against Switzerland at Lansdowne Road last month, Waterford native O’Shea has made no secret of his desire to assume the role on a permanent basis in recent weeks.

But last week he admitted he had not been interviewed by the association for the position, as the protracted and much-criticised search for Stephen Kenny’s successor continues after two targets of February and April were both missed.

The FAI had signalled that their new boss would be announced last week, but that deadline was missed with Canham then apologising for the ‘expectation’ and ‘confusion’ caused by previous statements. Canham said that the new deadline to appoint a new Ireland boss is now September, ahead of the Nations League opener at home to England.

“We’re delighted to extend John and his coaching and performance team for the June fixtures,” said Canham this morning.

“As confirmed last week, the process to appoint a new Head Coach for our senior men’s team will be concluded ahead of the start of the UEFA Nations League.

“I’ve kept in contact with John since the March fixtures and we’re really thankful to John for extending his spell as Interim Head Coach as well as his coaching and performance staff Paddy McCarthy, Glenn Whelan, Rene Gilmartin, Damien Doyle and Stephen Rice.

“Unfortunately, Brian isn’t in a position to be able to join up with the group for the two matches and I’d like to thank him for his input over the last few months and all of his efforts leading up and during the March international window.”

“I have been in contact with Marc since the March fixtures and last week, he asked me about stepping in again and as I said before, it is always an honour to represent your country so delighted to continue as Interim Head Coach for June and the work will begin straight away,” added O’Shea.

“Also, great to confirm the coaching and performance team will remain for the June fixtures which is great for continuity with the players and staff. We will be missing Brian for the two matches in June unfortunately due to commitments elsewhere. He was a fantastic influence in the March window, we will miss his input and expertise for the two matches, and I’d like to thank him for his efforts.”

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