O'Leary snubs Republic role

O'Leary: Republic snub

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David O'Leary has turned down the opportunity of an interview for the vacant Republic of Ireland manager's job.

Ireland have been searching for a new boss after Steve Staunton's brief tenure came to an end in the wake of failure to qualify for the Euro 2008 finals.

The Football Association of Ireland have appointed a three-man selection committee consisting of ex-Ireland midfielder Ray Houghton, Under 21 manager Don Givens and former England coach Don Howe.

But former Aston Villa and Leeds manager O'Leary has rejected the opportunity to stake his claim for the post as he wants to return to club management.

Declined

He told Sky Sports News: "After much soul-searching and thought I've declined the offer from the FAI to be interviewed for the vacant post of international team manager.

"It's a great honour and I'm very flattered to be considered.

"However, at this point in my career I wish to return to full-time club management and therefore reluctantly have decided against the opportunity to manage my country at this point."

Former Northern Ireland and Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez and ex-England manager Terry Venables have also been linked with the job.

Other names in the frame for the vacancy include Wolves boss Mick McCarthy, who led the Republic from 1996 to 2002, and legendary midfielder Liam Brady.