Man Utd cult hero makes managerial debut in major international clash
JOHN O’SHEA is refusing to let his “incredible” ride with the Republic of Ireland cloud his judgment as acting boss.
O’Shea was a youth star for his country, winning 118 senior caps before his last game in 2018.
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The ex-Manchester United defender, 42, has stepped up his role as assistant to Stephen Kenny, who left in November after failing to qualify for Euro 2024.
O’Shea will officiate today’s friendly against Belgium and Tuesday’s match against Switzerland.
He said: “It is an incredible honor to represent Ireland under 15s and captain your country.
“It’s great to be a manager now and I’m very proud of it.
“When you get the players together to chat for the first time it sets the tone and I’ve kept it very simple in terms of the staff I’ve brought in.
“I will then look at those connections, but also at the lessons from the two games and how we are progressing.
“I just want to concentrate on the staff, myself and the players.”
O’Shea named Southampton defender Ryan Manning in his squad on Friday after recovering from injury.
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However, O’Shea is forced to battle with withdrawals Troy Parrott and Liam Scales.
Sammie Szmodics, the Championship‘s top scorer with 21 goals for Blackburn, is set to make his Republic of Ireland debut.
Lyon defender Jake O’Brien and Middlesbrough midfielder Finn Azaz could also receive their international bows from O’Shea.
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