| DREAM TEAM ready to rule the roost
BY LARRY COONEY
 The
Republic of Ireland’s new management team began their reign with
a presentation to the media at the Mansion House on Monday.
However while new regime leader and manager Steve Staunton begins the
mammoth task of rebuilding his country’s football fortunes the stark
message for all Irish fans is to not expect instant success from the Boys
in Green.
The former boss of Ireland’s young manager Walsall’s Paul
Merson has urged fans and the FAI to be patient and has even suggested
it could take even longer than four years before the fruits of the management
team begin to blossom.
But Merson is confident that Staunton also has all the attributes to do
more than a good job for his country.
He said: “The Republic have lost a lot of experienced players but
they have got some fresh ones coming through so Steve needs people to
be patient. He needs about six years.”
While many commentators felt that Staunton’s partnership with Sir
Bobby Robson looked a somewhat strange combination, it became crystal
clear during the press conference that Staunton was unquestionably the
man in charge and would take full responsibility for the team’s
performances.
Staunton said: “I’m the boss. I’m the gaffer. At the
end of the day what I say goes, the buck stops with me. I will use Bobby
in whatever role I see fit. He has a huge role to play, he’s there
for me all the time.”
And Sir Bobby Robson said: “I am really looking forward to working
with the new manager and his team. Stephen’s record and reputation
speak for themselves. I’m here to support Steve in every aspect
of the job.
“I’ll give Steve everything I have to help him succeed and
there is nothing we won’t do to bring success to Irish football,
we want to get the fans on board. We want to be successful for you and
we want you to be with us.”
Staunton set out his plans and aims for his new regime.
He said: “I know in my heart we can do it and work together. We
are here to achieve success. Our aim is to qualify for the European Championships
and World Cups. First and foremost that is our aim, we want to blood new
talent and we have got new talent coming through.”
Staunton’s new employers also appear to be adamant they have made
the right choice. FAI Chief Executive Officer John Delaney said: “Stephen
has impressed people for many years with his attitude, commitment, dedication
and his unrivalled knowledge of the dressing room. He is highly respected,
a natural motivator and I am confident he will make an excellent manager.”
The other members of Staunton’s team include Kevin McDonald and
former Republic goalkeeper Alan Kelly who will be the goalkeeping coach.
The new Republic of Ireland regime make their debut on March 1 against
Group B World Cup finalists Sweden at Lansdowne Road. Before that date,
Steve Staunton is likely to attend the Euro 2008 draw in Montreux.
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