Former Sunderland manager Peter Reid claims he would welcome an approach from the Football Association of Ireland.
Reid, recently sacked after seven years at Sunderland last month, told Sky Sports news: "I think Mick McCarthy has done a fantastic job there following big Jack [Charlton].
"It is a country which is close to my heart and I would be interested in talking to them, but I don't want to tout for the job.
"At the moment I am quite happy with what I am doing at this time, just enjoying my rest." He said: "They have got some good players. It is something I have read about and that I wouldn't dismiss.".