The Football Association of Ireland's acting general secretary Kevin Fahy has said no approach had been made to Philippe Troussier about the Irish managerial vacancy.

Troussier, who was in charge of co-hosts Japan during the 2002 World Cup, had inicated he had been approached by several countries, including Ireland.

However, Fahy reacted to this by stating the FAI had not contacted Troussier, or anybody else, about succeeding Mick McCarthy.

Fahy said the association was still in the process of appointing an advisor to help find a new manager.

However, Irish bookmakers have slashed the odds on Troussier getting the job from 25-1 to 9-2, making him joint third favourite with Brian Kerr, the Irish youth team boss.

Burley reports

Former Liverpool striker and Tranmere manager John Aldridge is favourite with Kenny Dalglish second.

On Tuesday morning, Irish newspapers reported that former Ipswich boss George Burley had become the latest to express an interest in the position.

Meanwhile, Steve Staunton, who retired from international football after Ireland lost to Spain on penalties in Korea, said he would like to be Republic manager some time in the futute.

"I would like one day to manage my country, of course, but I have got a lot of learning to do," said the Aston Villa defender who plans to gain coaching qualifications.

"When I see what happens in football, it is a bit of a crazy world but I am sure one day I would like to give management a shot."