The race to become the next Republic of Ireland manager was blown wide open yesterday, with Neil Lennon now considered to be the favourite for the position after Lee Carsley reportedly pulled out of the running for the role.
It has long been said that the current England U21 manager was the FAI's preferred successor to Stephen Kenny. Not only was he a 40-cap Ireland international during his playing days, but he has shown an ability to improve young players while employing a modern tactical approach during his time in the FA setup.
Reports during the week suggested that Carsley could be appointed as Ireland boss as soon as next week. However, articles in the British media have since suggested that the 49-year old had informed the FA that he would be staying on in his current role and is interested in replacing Gareth Southgate as England manager after this summer's Euros.
As a result, Neil Lennon is now seen as the favourite for the position.
The former Celtic boss has stated his interest in the role on a number of occasions in recent months and is thought to have supporters within the FAI.
He has now spoken about the job once again this afternoon.
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Neil Lennon responds to his status as favourite for Ireland job
Speaking on Premier Sports this afternoon, Neil Lennon remained very coy on suggestions that he is now the favourite to become the next Ireland manager. However, he admitted that he is still very much interested in the gig.
Not a lot (to tell). I've been on this show before saying the job would really appeal to me.
There is a process ongoing. Whether I am part of the process or not remains to be seen.
At the minute you're just dealing with speculation. There is a lot of names still involved in the hat, whether Lee [Carsley] has rule himself in or out.
Yeah, it's a job that appeals to me...
I achieved one ambition by playing for and managing Celtic. If I was going to go down the international route, then Ireland would be my first choice really.
Like all these jobs, and I know this from my own experience, there are millions of candidates who would love a job like this, millions of candidates who would love club jobs as well.
I've just got to be patient and wait and see what decision they come to. That's as much as you're getting!
He certainly didn't give too much away.
The Irish Mirror reported earlier today that the FAI had met with Neil Lennon this week, with a board meeting next week set to go a long way towards who will ultimately be appointed.
If the reports about Carsley's preferences are to be believed, it would seem that the Armagh man is now very much in the running to be appointed as Ireland manager at some stage over the next couple of weeks.
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