Merson says Staunton is 'good choice'

Paul Merson has backed Steve Staunton to be a success as Republic of Ireland manager.

Staunton was until recently player-coach under Merson at Walsall and is " a good choice" for the job, according to the former Arsenal player.

Merson said: "There has been talk of getting someone with experience in to help him, and it's perfect. I hope he succeeds, I really do. He deserves it."

Merson believes the onus will fall on the players to get results and he hopes Staunton is given time to make his mark.

The retirements of Roy Keane, Kenny Cunningham and Stephen Carr have left a void that will initially prove difficult to fill.

"If you put the players on the pitch and they perform, it doesn't matter if you've Freddie Starr helping you," Merson said.

"As soon as they cross the white line and they start playing, then it doesn't matter.  Although it will all come down to results, I think Steve will be great. He will get the players playing for him.

"He has retirements to contend with, a lot of good Irish players have retired, so he's got to bring some youngsters through.

"It's going to take a while, so hopefully he has got time. Hopefully they will give him the next World Cup, which would be a bonus."

PA