Staunton deserves chance - Kavanagh

Wigan midfielder Graham Kavanagh believes Steve Staunton deserves a chance as Republic of Ireland manager before facing any level of criticism.

Staunton's lack of managerial experience is countered by the fact he has sought Bobby Robson to work alongside him in an advisory capacity, with the two men to be officially unveiled on Monday.

But there is a view among the fans that they have been short-changed as they believed the FAI would appoint a big-name manager.

Despite Staunton being seen as a hero as a player, winning a record 102 caps and playing in three World Cups, the supporters were hoping for a manager of repute, rather than a rookie.

Although many former Ireland players have backed Staunton, Kavanagh, as a member of the current playing squad, firmly believes the 36-year-old will prove a success.

He said: "Whether people like it or lump it, Steve is going to be the new Ireland manager and people should give him all the support they can.

"It's a brave appointment by the FAI, and I can understand people's wariness because of his lack of experience, but people have to start somewhere, they have to be given a chance.

"Of course, any new job always brings with it difficulties, which is why any new manager should be given the benefit of the doubt until he settles into the role.

"There are going to be people saying he has not managed anybody, but he has been in football long enough to know the ins and outs of running a team.

"He will have somebody alongside him in Bobby Robson who has a wealth of experience from across Europe having been with clubs such as Barcelona, PSV Eindhoven and Newcastle.

"He also had a good spell with England, so he knows international football better than most people."

Kavanagh feels Staunton has one edge over older managers having only retired from international football in the summer of 2002.

"He is the most-capped player in Ireland's history, which is a huge achievement, so he knows international football like the back of his hand and he will know the players in the squad.

"I think his appointment is a good one - and I hope it's good for me because I want to remain part of the squad after being involved in the last few. Even if I'm not, I wish him all the best."

PA