Robson emerges as favourite to become new Ireland boss

Former Middlesbrough boss Bryan Robson, has emerged as the favourite to take over as manager of the Republic of Ireland.

Robson’s odds shortened yesterday when John Toshack followed David O’Leary’s lead by ruling himself out of the running for the vacancy.

Of the candidates linked with the post, Joe Kinnear, John Alrdridge and Peter Reid have all attracted support in the race to replace Mick McCarthy, but it is Robson who is attracting most support.

Bookmakers Ladbrokes issued a statement which read: ‘Peter Reid’s odds have been slashed after lots of support but there has been an even bigger plunge on Bryan Robson.

‘The former Middlesbrough manager’s odds have been dramatically slashed, making him the new favourite.

‘Ladbrokes can report that one punter has placed a bet of œ1,000 at 16/1 on Robson.’

Toshack meanwhile, has opted to take the vancy post at Italian Serie B side Catania.

McCarthy resigned earlier this week after six years in charge of the Republic of Ireland team.