John O’Shea is passionately pursuing the position of manager, specifically of Republic of Ireland. He asserts his preparedness and competency for this role, refuting the idea that he’s content with the position of a coach or an assistant. O’Shea shared these sentiments after Ireland was narrowly defeated by Switzerland at the Aviva Stadium on a Tuesday evening.
Even though O’Shea, 42, has not yet managed to secure a win during his two matches in leadership, he remains excited by the challenges that managerial post will bring. He was at the helm for a draw with Belgium and took a loss due to a finely taken free-kick by Xherdan Shaqiri.
O’Shea explained his ambitions further in a post-match media briefing. The discussion first touched on Marc Canham, the FAI Director of Football’s recent statement that the process of unveiling a new chief coach to succeed Stephen Kenny had been impeded by current contractual complexities.
Canham suggested that the situation would become clearer in early April. Interestingly, Gus Poyet’s Greece failed to secure European qualification on Tuesday, facing defeat in a penalty shootout. Now, heads are turning towards Poyet, whose future is currently obscured by his own contractual obligations.
When questioning O’Shea, who used to be Poyet’s captain at Sunderland, about any potential contractual hurdles, he denied any knowledge of such restrictions. He expressed satisfaction over the support the team extended to his management style, emphasizing the staff’s contribution in conveying necessary instructions to the players.
Notwithstanding, O’Shea accepted that the team’s ultimate requirement was victory. Despite the team performing admirably for large portions of the Switzerland game, he was frank to acknowledge the need for wins as a priority.
O’Shea, known for his directness, finds himself somewhat hamstrung when it comes to addressing the current recruitment issue, implying a knowledge of more than he’s revealing.
He candidly reveals his aspiration of taking up the managerial positions at Real Madrid, Manchester United or Ireland, if given the opportunity. Despite the conjecture by Canham that Ireland’s forthcoming manager will be a different candidate, O’Shea admits even he lacks the definitive answer to this question.
The Football Association of Ireland indicated in December that they were considering all potential candidates, sparking queries as to whether O’Shea had been consulted prior to Christmas. His response alludes to being overlooked due to their preference for a more experienced manager, however he quipped that was no longer an issue.
O’Shea expresses his satisfaction in terms of acquiring knowledge about team organization and preparation against high-level international competition. Even though victory is also crucial, he demonstrates gratitude for the achievements made thus far.
Dara O’Shea, the Burnley defender and namesake, voiced his endorsement of John O’Shea taking up the Irish management position, emphasizing the relevance of the role being occupied by a native Irishman.
John O’Shea reiterates this sentiment but adds his own experience working successfully under managers from various global regions.
He asserts the significance of the managerial role in coordinating the team, understanding player dynamics and recognizing individual player capacities. He proffers the idea that the Irish position would be desirable for many managers both local and international.
Over the last half-decade, O’Shea shares his learning experience, picking up essential tools and methodologies from skilled coaches and managers to shape his own managerial style.
In the event that Poyet or another contender is announced as the new manager next week, O’Shea does consider the possibility of serving as their deputy. He acknowledges that the decision would largely depend on a discussion with the incoming manager.
Is he under the impression that a contract with a fresh team manager has been finalised? He responded, “If it was so, I’d let you know. I see no reason not to tell you. Based on the parlance I’ve caught wind of before the prior matches, I have been led to believe that they indeed have signed an agreement. That is my perception of the situation.”