Man Utd legend John O’Shea misses out on Ireland job to former dentist who masterminded one of England’s darkest days
MANCHESTER UNITED legend John O’Shea has missed out on the Ireland job – to a manager who used to be a dentist.
The former defender was one of the favourites to take over after being named interim boss following the sacking of Stephen Kenny in November.
England Under-21 manager Lee Carsley was Ireland’s preferred candidate but he ruled himself out of contention.
Record goalscorer Robbie Keane put his name in the hat while Chris Coleman, Neil Lennon and Chris Hughton were all linked.
But the Irish FA have surprised many by appointing former Iceland boss Heimir Hallgrímsson.
He is best known as being the man in charge during Iceland’s golden age as they reached the Euro 2016 quarter finals, when they knocked out England, and then the 2018 World Cup.
Hallgrimsson was still practising dentistry during the World Cup, and he likened his patients to his players.
Hallgrimmsson told SunSport ahead of the tournament in Russia: “I still have my clinic and I like to keep my fingers working.
“So I try to go there as much as I can in my spare time and do some dentistry.
“Some coaches go and play golf, I do dentistry.
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“The reality of a football coach, you never know when you are out of a job so it’s good to have another profession to jump into.
“The clients love it, and I love it too.
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“They talk about football until I’m fed up… and then I give them anaesthesia!”
And the Three Lions will be his first opponent as Ireland boss in Dublin on September 7.
Fans have already poked fun at Hallgrimsson over the fact he is a trained dentist.
The former Jamaica boss revealed his delight at taking over Ireland, saying: “It is an honour to be appointed Head Coach of the Ireland Senior Men’s National Team.
“Ireland is rightly a proud footballing nation which has consistently produced talented players and enjoyed many memorable moments at major international tournaments.
“We have a young and exciting team that has genuine potential.
“I am looking forward to working closely with the players to help coach and guide them towards improved performances and results ensuring we qualify and compete at major tournaments on a regular basis.
“We have important and exciting games coming up in the UEFA Nations League later this year and a massive FIFA World Cup qualification campaign coming up next year.
“Finally, I am also looking forward to getting to know the people of Ireland and in particular the wonderful fans of Irish football.
“It is my responsibility to coach, prepare and develop our team as best as possible to deliver results on the pitch and to make.”