Following last night's comedy show in the RTE studio featuring Bill O'Herlihy, Eamon Dunphy, John Giles and Richie Sadlier, we at Balls.ie think it may be time for a revamp of the RTE punditry team.
We have taken a look at some of the most prominent candidates to fill the roles that have been held by Billo, Dunphy, Gilesy and Liam Brady for so long.
Make sure to vote for your ideal panel below, with one anchor and three pundits.
cover image: sportsfile
Anchor
1. Eoin McDevitt
McDevitt's stock is as high as ever, he is much loved among those who have ever listened to Off The Ball or Second Captains, and has even worked for RTE already, but the one snag might be getting him in a suit.
2. Rachel Wyse
A female presenter would certainly freshen things up, and we're sure John Giles would approve, even if she doesn't ask the most relevant questions.
3. Kevin O'Connell
As a young lad, Kevin was a stalwart of RTE programming on shows like Rapid and the Grid, and proved himself in his teens as an expert on all things hurling. If he can transfer that expertise to football, he could prove to be a popular, nostalgic choice.
. Darragh Maloney
Maloney has long played second fiddle to Bill O'Herlihy, and has been waiting in the wings to take over when the Cork man retires his microphone, by hosting highlights shows of the Confederations Cup and presenting dead rubbers like last night's game, but does he deserve to make the step up full-time?
Pundits
1. Richie Sadlier
Sadlier is the front runner to fill in a vacant chair when they finally become available on a full-time basis. He probably wouldn't admit it himself but he is currently the heir apparent to Dunphy's throne as the controversial, out-spoken, loudmouth of the trio.
2. Kevin Kilbane
Killer has long been a fan favourite with Irish supporters and has learned his trade in the punditry world with Newstalk, the BBC and SKY Sports without ever nailing down a first team slot anywhere. RTE could do worse than take a punt on the well-spoken, well groomed Irish legend.
3. Kenny Cunningham
The Dubliner has been a staple of the RTE second-string for some time now, and has been waiting patiently in the wings for that promotion to the big time. He already has the benefit of previous punditry chemistry with Richie Sadlier.
4. Jason McAteer
Another fan favourite, McAteer has always played it dumb but is far more articulate and opinionated than he lets on to the public.
5. Steve Staunton
'Stan' would be the wildcard choice but who else can match the man's charisma and screen presence.
6. Joe Lapira
Lapira, like Sadlier, has gained a solitary cap for Ireland, and for those who didn't know, currently plays Norwegian second division football. The Irish legend would surely add some personality, hair and a unique perspective on the team.
7. Tony Cascarino
'Big Cas' is a man willing to speak his mind and doesn't pull any punches, and doesn't care who he offends along the way.
8. Roy Keane
If Roy doesn't turn up in the manager's hot seat, and some of us are hoping he does, he would make an ideal pundit with RTE. He has experience, can grow a great beard, and whether you love him or hate him, the country would definitely tune in.
