Social reacts: Irish fans 'excited' for appointment of next 'likely' Republic of Ireland manager

The next Republic of Ireland manager looks 'likely' to be announced sooner rather than later following reports that all roads are leading to Lee Carsley.

According to The Irish Sun, Carsley, who is the head coach of England under-21s, could be appointed as Irish boss as early as next week if all goes to plan for the FAI - who have been on the search for a successor to Stephen Kenny since November.

The former Everton midfielder, capped 40 times for the Boys in Green, led England to success at the European Under-21 Championship in 2023. He has also had youth coaching roles with Coventry, Brentford, Manchester City and Birmingham City since he retired from football in 2011.

Irish fans have taken to socials to have their say on the potential appointment:

One 'X' user posted: "I for one am excited by the incoming Lee Carsley appointment, absolutely a win with the names available," referring to other candidates linked with the job - Neil Lennon, Chris Hughton and Roy Keane, among others.

Lee Carsley is set to be appointed as the next Ireland manager in the next 7 days !

The FAI have finally gotten their man in what has felt like a very drawn out process.

Time to look forward to the future of Irish football under Carsley☘️
(@OCowzer) pic.twitter.com/MZ41kkCXjr

— Rep of Ireland Player Tracker (@reptracker) January 25, 2024

Another social media user said: "Really excited about this appointment. Can't wait to see Lee Carsley test himself on a senior stage. He had an excellent time as manager of England U21 - but of course, he had a great group there too. Interested to see how this translates."

The Republic of Ireland's next international break takes place in March when they play Belgium and Switzerland at the Aviva Stadium.