The 46-year-old former Middlesbrough boss said he had made the Football Association of Ireland aware of his interest in the post.

Ex-Northern Ireland coach Bryan Hamilton, employed by the Association to draw up a shortlist, handed his dossier to FAI president Milo Corcoran in Dublin on Tuesday.

Robson is the firm favourite with the bookmakers at even money.

Bryan Hamilton will continue his involvement though to the completion of this process FAI statement

"Everybody knows I have got an interest in the job - but I am not sure what Bryan Hamilton's done with his list," said Robson.

Corcoran, acting general secretary Kevin Fahy and treasurer John Delaney, aiming to appoint Mick McCarthy's successor within a fortnight, will now hold final interviews with the shortlisted candidates.

Many believes Robson will be the preferred candidate because his Manchester United connections could help secure Roy Keane's return to the international team.

The FAI expect to have someone in place by the end of the month, in time for the friendly against Scotland in Glasgow on 12 February.

"We are extremely pleased with the outcome of the first phase of the recruitment process," the FAI said in a statement.

Bryan Hamilton is involved in the selection process

"Bryan Hamilton met with our selection committee following an extensive number of contacts with a wide range of applicants.

"The sub-committee will now commence final interviews with a shortlist of candidates.

"Bryan Hamilton will continue his involvement though to the completion of this process.

"We will refrain from commenting on individual candidates but expect the new manager to be appointed by the end of January."

It is believed that the other candidates in the mix are Peter Reid, Philippe Troussier, Kenny Daglish, Bryan Robson, Kevin Moran, and Brian Kerr.