Staunton speculation increases

There is renewed speculation today suggesting that the appointment of Steve Staunton as Republic of Ireland manager is imminent.

Staunton, currently assistant manager to Paul Merson at Walsall, is reported to have held talks with top FAI officials in Manchester over the weekend.

The FAI is today refusing to comment on these reports.

Staunton, with little or no management experience, is expected to form one part of an initial two-man management team.

Former Newcastle and England manager Bobby Robson is, according to sources, being lined up as a mentor to assist the former Liverpool and Aston Villa defender.

The Republic of Ireland’s next game is against Sweden on March 1st and the FAI hopes to have Brian Kerr’s successor in place by then.

However, it is believed an appointment could be made before the January 27th draw for the 2008 European Championships qualifying campaign.

Staunton is Ireland's most capped player, making 102 appearances including 16 as captain.

He played in two World Cup finals, with his last game the second-round penalty shoot-out to Spain in South Korea three-and-a-half years ago.

Republic striker Clinton Morrison gave his backing to the possible double appointment - insisting Staunton would be welcomed by the players and predicting Robson would add valued experience.

The Crystal Palace front man told Sky Sports News: "It'd be good. A lot of the players know 'Stan'. It'd be a good appointment - and if he brings Bobby Robson in with him that'd be brilliant because he's got great experience."

Staunton's lack of managerial experience should not be a problem, according to  Morrison, and nor should the fact he played for the Republic alongside several of the current squad.

"He helped a lot of the young players when I was around him, and I hope he still likes me," said Morrison. "He was friendly with all the players and got on with them, and it'll be difficult for him. But I think he's a professional man and he knows he's there as a manager.

"Bobby Robson's got great experience. He's been a top manager, wherever he's gone, and he's won trophies. I'll have to control my tongue a bit but just listen and learn."