 George Burley guided Hearts to the top of the SPL |
George Burley's sudden departure from Hearts has prompted Irish bookmakers to make him the favourite to be the next Republic of Ireland manager. Bookies actually stopped taking bets on the Republic post after the Edinburgh club announced Burley's shock exit.
When the book reopened the former Derby and Ipswich boss was a clear 9-4 favourite, ahead of Martin O'Neill.
It is believed O'Neill still tops FAI's wish-list, despite leaving Celtic last May to care for his ill wife.
The most recent names to have been mentioned as possible successors to Brian Kerr include Phillippe Troussier and Steve Staunton.
Troussier coached joint hosts Japan at the 2002 World Cup and has made it known he is keen on the position.
Staunton, who won the last of his 102 Republic caps at that World Cup, is also thought to be interested.
MMIX
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