Former Manchester United defender John O’Shea has assumed the role of interim head coach for the Republic of Ireland.

O’Shea, 42, boasts 118 caps for the Republic and previously served as an assistant coach under Stephen Kenny and with the Under-21 side.

Kenny vacated the position in November following the team’s failure to qualify for Euro 2024.

The Football Association of Ireland announced that Kenny’s permanent successor will be named in “early April”.

O’Shea will oversee the team in the upcoming friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland in March, with Crystal Palace assistant coach Paddy McCarthy providing support.

Previously, the ex-Sunderland defender held coaching roles at Reading and Stoke City before joining former Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney’s coaching staff at Birmingham City.

Following Rooney’s departure as head coach in January, O’Shea left the Championship club.

Expressing his sentiments, O’Shea, who retired from playing in 2019, stated, “It’s an incredible honor to lead the Republic in next month’s friendlies. I’ve always had immense pride representing my country, whether during my playing career or as part of the coaching staff.”

He added, “It’s great Paddy has agreed to come on board for the two matches, and work will begin straight away to prepare for two top-quality fixtures against great opposition in front of our fantastic home support. I’ve got great belief in this group of players.”