Wednesday, January 11, 2006
'What If'? Wednesday - Stan, Mac and Bob?
Well we didn't get Martin O'Neill, we didn't get David O'Leary, we didn't get Roy Keane and we didn't get Terry Venables. Who are we getting you ask?Steve Staunton and Kevin McDonald. Hmm.
Yes RTE has reported that Steve Staunton is set to have McDonald, currently reserve-team coach at Aston Villa, as his 'coaching guru'.
Staunton is due to officially be unveiled by the Football Association of Ireland on Monday along with advisor and mentor Bobby Robson. Staunton, who celebrates his 37th birthday in eight days' time, looks set to be handed a four-year contract, with Robson a two-year deal.
The FAI see that as ideal for Robson in order to ease Staunton, who has recently been coaching with Coca-Cola League One Walsall, into an unfamiliar role given his lack of managerial experience.
However, the FAI have entrusted Staunton with the task of appointing his own backroom team, despite Robson's welter of contacts from his many years in the game. It was initially felt Robson would look to bring in John Carver, who was his assistant during his five years at Newcastle, and who is now head coach at Leeds.
But the FAI see it as vital there are no grey areas when it comes to the roles of Staunton and Robson, and have been drawing demarcation lines to that effect.
Staunton is the man in charge, with Robson to undertake whatever is required, a position he is believed to be more than happy with.
This is all very strange. Gurus, mentors, why does it feel like Steve Staunton is set to become a Jedi rather than the manager of the Irish football team?
Obi-Wan Robson
Former Irish internationals have been giving their thoughts on the prospect of Steve Staunton as Ireland maanger.
Ray Houghton told BBC Sport: "The players have a healthy respect for him. And if the fans see progress and a bit of belief and spirit, he'll be fine."
Tony Cascarino added: "There's huge respect for Steve in Ireland and he knows how to get the best out of players."
Staunton's 3 years of modern dance should help
Well that's what they think but the question still has to be asked...
What if this is the plan for the Irish team?
Will it prove successful? Will we qualify for the 2008 European Championships? Will it fail miserably?
I have to say at this point in time I'm very sceptical and I don't think our chances of qualifying in 2008 look good.
# posted by United Irelander @ 5:25 PM 
© 2008 United Irelander.
