FAI HEADHUNTER RUUD Dokter says there has been “lots of interest” in the vacant Ireland job but that the move to appoint a new manager will take time.
It was reported that the FAI wanted Giovanni Trapattoni’s successor in place by 1 November at the latest with many expecting them to conclude a quick deal with bookies’ favourite Martin O’Neill.
A host of other names entered the race over the weekend including Guus Hiddink and Alex Ferguson’s former Manchester United assistant Carlos Queiroz.
Dokter, who is managing the search along with Ray Houghton, gave little away when he spoke to the media in Malahide this morning.
The Dutchman was originally appointed as the FAI’s High Performance Director but has put that task to one side temporarily to concentrate on recruitment as well as serving as interim manager Noel King’s assistant for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
“There has been lots of interest and we have talked to people,” he said. “That’s actually all I want to say about it because it is an ongoing process.”
Asked what qualities himself and Houghton are looking for in a candidate, he answered, “a good manager for the senior team.”
O’Neill remains the favourite to take up the role on a permanent basis although Mick McCarthy has been tipped for a second term while under-fire Norwich City boss Chris Hughton has been linked with a move into international management.
