Exclusive – FAI chief executive coy on Keane rumours

Republic of Ireland chief executive John Delaney has remained coy on rumours that Roy Keane could replace Giovanni Trapttoni as national team boss.

The Italian coach left his position on Wednesday after defeats to Sweden and Austria all but ended their hopes of qualifying for next year’s World Cup in Brazil.

Former Manchester United captain, Keane, has been linked with taking the vacant role, along with ex-Sunderland boss Martin O’Neill and current Ipswich manager Mick McCarthy.

Delaney, though, thinks there will be plenty of interest in the job as Ireland target qualification for the 2016 European Championship in France.

He told Drive Time: “Roy Keane has been mentioned as have many other names. I’m not surprised by that.

“We’ve had the phone ringing from agents who are putting managers forward for the job.

“I won’t comment on any individual I think that would be wrong if I start saying, ‘he’s in and he’s out’, that would be inappropriate.”