Houllier for Ireland

[Couldbe]

Gerard Houllier is the man most likely to replace Steve Staunton as Ireland manager.

 

 

The Irish Independent understands that Houllier is now clear favourite to be nominated for the job by kingmakers Don Givens, Don Howe and Ray Houghton.

 

Insiders say that the former Liverpool and France chief is in prime position to benefit from uncertainty surrounding Terry Venables and concerns about either the credentials or recent managerial experience of other prominent candidates.

 

While Houllier has been publicly coy about his interest, given that he is currently employed by the French Football Federation (FFF) as a technical director, the indications are that he would be interested by the challenge if offered it.

 

Last month, the 60-year-old turned down the opportunity to manage the Korean national side and his commitment to the FFF was cited as a key reason. However, family reasons were also a significant factor in the decision as the Koreans wanted their new man based there for the majority of the year.

 

Mick McCarthy would now appear to be Houllier's biggest rival as the FAI's top brass grow increasing frustrated with Terry Venables.

 

The Wolves manager is gathering support among the association's senior figures, who fear Venables is about to accept a £1m per annum tax-free offer to take charge of Bulgaria, who ironically will be among Ireland's rivals in the forthcoming Group Eight World cup qualifying campaigns

 

FAI officials are growing tired with Venables's brinkmanship and, after canvassing widely in their search for a new manager, believe McCarthy would be welcomed back by the players.

 

Houllier, however, has emerged as the favourite

[Crazy Horse]

Newcastle should give him a job.

[smithdown]

Venables for newcastle would be a cracking laugh

[Bo Benn]

Venables for newcastle would be a cracking laugh

 

First time in history i might actually a bit feel a bit sympathetic for Toon

[chrisbonnie]

how the f*** is Mccarthy still in the running, seriously, how is that possible?

 

id take ged, definetly the best of the candidates to date

[nitski]

Big Sam for Ireland. Grow the grass long. Pump long balls into the mixer.