McCarthy backs new man Staunton

Republic appoint Staunton as boss

Mick McCarthy has welcomed the appointment of Steve Staunton as manager of the Republic of Ireland and Sir Bobby Robson's supporting role.

Staunton was one of the senior players to back then Republic boss McCarthy in the infamous bust-up with Roy Keane prior to the 2002 World Cup finals.

The Sunderland boss says Staunton will benefit from Robson's experience.

"What Steve lacks a bit in management then I am sure he has got the perfect man to help him," added McCarthy.

"I hope it works for them because I like them both personally.

"I don't know where the contact between Bobby and he came from but Bobby has been a fantastic manager and I am sure 'Stan' will benefit from that.

I think he'll do well and that fact that he's got Bobby alongside him is a good move Ron Atkinson

"Steve brings all the things to the table that Irish fans and players will appreciate. He knows the system inside out and what it will take to get the Irish team going again to get results."

Former Aston Villa boss Ron Atkinson, who managed Staunton during his time in charge at Villa Park, acknowledged the Dundalk man's managerial inexperience but added that he believed that the 36-year-old has the credentials to be a success.

"Throughout his career, he has achieved the things that he set out his stall to do," Atkinson told BBC Sport.

"I think he'll do well and that fact that he's got Bobby alongside him is a good move."

Atkinson cautioned that there are never any certainties in football but said that his "gut instinct" was that Staunton will prove a good appointment by the Football Association of Ireland.

"He's inexperienced (in management) but I can remembering Kenny Dalglish winning the double in his first year in charge at Liverpool."