FAI holds talks over Republic job

Gerard Houllier is being linked with the Republic job again

The Football Association of Ireland is meeting in Dublin to discuss the search for a successor to Steve Staunton as Republic of Ireland manager.

Terry Venables has been the long-time favourite for the position but there is speculation that Gerard Houllier could be back in the frame for the role.

Reports over the weekend claimed that the former Liverpool manager had ruled himself out as a candidate.

Liam Brady is also believed to be a genuine contender for the position.

There had been suggestions an appointment might be made at the meeting at FAI headquarters in Abbotstown on Tuesday but this now appears unlikely.

Don Givens, one of the headhunters for the job, is meeting Football Association of Ireland officials to discuss the continuing search for a new manager.

However, it appears he will give a progress report rather than making a firm recommendation on the position.

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It is understood that Givens and his recruitment colleagues Don Howe and Ray Houghton have still to hold interviews with a couple of candidates, reported to be former Northern Ireland manager Lawrie Sanchez and ex-Derby County boss Billy Davies.

David O'Leary ruled himself out of contention for the Republic job last week while several other candidates, including Graeme Souness, fell by the wayside during the protracted search for a successor to Staunton, who lost the job in late October.

Venables has said very little in relation to the Republic job but he was interviewed for the position earlier this month and he is said to have impressed Givens, Howe and Houghton.

However, there was increasing speculation on Tuesday that the former England manager could miss out on the Republic role.