Steve Staunton has been tipped to become the new Republic of Ireland manager.

The former Liverpool and Aston Villa defender, who is currently assistant manager at Walsall, has been involved in discussions with FAI officials with a view to succeeding Brian Kerr.

Kerr was relieved of his position in October following his failure to lead Ireland to this year’s World Cup finals.

Staunton, who is his country’s most capped player with 102 caps, lacks managerial experience but it is thought The FAI may employ him in tandem with an experienced manager such as former Newcastle boss Sir Bobby Robson.

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