Former Wigan boss Paul Jewell has withdrawn his interest in the vacant Republic of Ireland manager's job, BBC Sport understands.
Jewell had informal talks last week with former Republic boss John Giles who is believed to be sounding out candidates for the role.
But Jewell has told the Football Association of Ireland he does not want to be considered, reports Radio 5 Live.
Terry Venables is the new clear favourite to succeed Steve Staunton.
Other managers linked with the post include Graeme Souness, Gerard Houllier, David O'Leary and Philippe Troussier.
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Former Wigan boss Jewell opted not to return to the JJB Stadium recently and, speaking after his meeting with Giles last week, said: "Johnny Giles asked to see me and I went to meet him.
"We had a great chat about football in general and of course he mentioned the Irish job situation, but it wasn't an interview. I'm flattered by the interest."
He added: "I'm certainly not ruling it out. I am thinking about it."
Giles said he had "to treat this situation with confidentiality" but his help appears to have been enlisted by the FAI in their search for Staunton's successor following the former defender's recent departure.
The FAI concurred with Jewell's insistence the meeting was informal.
A spokesman said: "No approach has been made by the FAI to a potential manager."
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