Republic of Ireland: ‘I didn’t need persuading’ – John O’Shea on assistant coach role

John O’Shea has said he did not need to be persuaded to join Heimir Hallgrimsson’s Republic of Ireland backroom team.

Former Manchester United defender O’Shea, who won 118 caps for the Republic of Ireland in a 17-year international career, took interim charge of the national side for two friendly double-headers in March and June following Stephen Kenny’s departure late last year.

While O’Shea outlined his ambition to lead the team on a full-time basis, former Iceland and Jamaica head coach Hallgrimsson was confirmed as the Football Association of Ireland’s surprise choice to succeed Kenny in July.

Earlier this month, Hallgrimsson announced O’Shea and Paddy McCarthy would be part of his coaching set-up.

“In terms of the personalities and the trust, you can see that I was going to enjoy working alongside him and learning as well,” said O’Shea, who faced the media alongside Hallgrimsson on Thursday following the manager’s squad announcement.

“That was a big factor but when you examine it all, I knew what was going on, if you know what I mean, to an extent in the background.

“I was always aware of the situation so it was key for me to assess the situation in a cool, calm way and go ‘this is really good for me’. I’m still learning and it’s a good person to be learning from.”

When asked about what he would do were a club opportunity to present itself, O’Shea added: “It’s straightforward for me. In football, we won’t be looking too far ahead.

“For me, the full focus is on England and Greece, first and foremost, the campaign to come, and obviously the big draw coming up in a few months’ time too.”