FORMER FRANCE COACH Raymond Domenech says he has “dreamed of managing Ireland”.
In an interview with French TV, Domenech — who left his job as France boss in 2010 — explained his love for the Boys in Green.
“I’ve dreamed of managing Ireland for years. I love the people, I’ve drunk beer with the Irish, they’re true sports people.
“They drink with them, they party with them, they fight (on the field) and once it’s finished, they go home.”
Domenach, who was manager of France in the 2010 World Cup playoff against Ireland that was made famous by the infamous Thierry Henry handball incident, experienced a mixed tenure as boss of his country.
After taking over in 2004, he guided France all the way to the World Cup final in 2006, which his team lost on penalties to Italy.
However, disappointments followed, as the French team failed to progress further than the group stage at both Euro 2008 and World Cup 2010.
His failures were exacerbated by a tendency to fall out with talented players and a selection policy that many considered bizarre at times.
An event widely regarded as the lowpoint of his regime occurred during the 2010 World Cup when his players refused to train following a series of arguments prompted by the dismissal of striker Nicolas Anelka from the squad.
h/t @MRodden and @mattspiro
