FORMER Manchester United defender John O’Shea will take charge of the Republic of Ireland’s March friendlies before the planned appointment of a permanent manager in early April, it was announced today.

O’Shea, who is third all-time on the Republic’s list of appearances with 118 caps, has been named interim head coach ahead of Belgium and Switzerland visiting Dublin late next month.

His appointment on a temporary basis gives the FAI more time to complete its search for a permanent successor to Stephen Kenny, who left the role in November.