Staunton 'to land Republic post'

Staunton was a consistent performer for the Republic

The Republic of Ireland's most capped player Steve Staunton is set to be announced as the team's new manager later this week, it has been reported.

It is thought the Football Association of Ireland wants a more experienced manager as his mentor, with Sir Bobby Robson in the frame for that post.

Staunton is currently Paul Merson's assistant at Walsall.

Previous Republic coach Brian Kerr left the post after the team failed to qualify for the World Cup finals.

Staunton, who spent most of his playing career with Liverpool and Aston Villa, won 102 caps including 16 as captain.

Have Your Say Is Staunton the right man to take over?

He played for his country in three World Cup finals, with his final game being the second-round penalty-shoot-out elimination at the hands of Spain in South Korea in 2002.

Before Christmas, Merson admitted he would not stand in Staunton's way if he got the chance to manage the side.

"I'd back him," Merson said. "Everybody who plays football would love to manage their country one day, so, if it came along, of course I'd let him go."