Carsley Rules himself out of Ireland Job

Lee Carsley has ruled himself out of the running for to become the permanent Republic of Ireland manager confirming his prolonged commitment with the England under 21s.

It was revealed at the beginning of the year by FAI director of football Marc Canham that a new Ireland boss would be announced in “early April” due to the "existing contractual obligations" of their target. Stepping in as a provisional manager for the time being is John O'Shea who will be taking charge of the upcoming friendlies against Belgium on Saturday and Switzerland on Tuesday week.

Carsley, who had been tipped as the front-runner to replace Stephen Kenny after his England under 21 side's Euro 2025 qualifiers this month revealed an interview with the Daily Mail, that he would not be taking the Irish job.

Speaking to the media ahead of a qualifying game in Azerbaijan on Friday, Carsley revealed that he met with the FAI back in November and has no plans to leave his current role with the young lions.

“We had an initial conversation in November,” said Carsley, “I went to speak to them. Really informal, enjoyable, for around an hour. It went no further.

“It was good to see what their thoughts were and to explore whether I was ready to take that next step. It just went no further. I didn’t push it.

‘I’ve always said that I’m really privileged to do this job I’m in. I appreciate that I’m in a really good position with a lot of responsibility.’

“There was a feeling that I would go and do a senior job after the summer but speaking to John McDermott (FA Technical Director) and other people, I’m committed to this campaign,’ said the 50-year-old.

‘At some point, maybe it’s something I’ll do. I didn’t need convincing. I see myself as a development coach. I’ve not put myself out there, applying for jobs or anything. I definitely wouldn’t go down that route with the position I’m in and how lucky I am.”

Irish fans remain in limbo as the Carsley's withdrawal fails to illuminate their search for a new manager, leaving them stranded and in the dark with the FAI.

Among many names Chris Hughton, Gus Puyet and current Georgia manager Willy Sagnol hold down the top spot as the bookie's favorites to take up the job.