James Cox
Lee Carsley has ruled himself out of the running to become the new Republic of Ireland manager.
The former Irish international midfielder has told the Daily Mail he will continue in his role as coach of the England Under-21 side.
Carsley met the FAI in November but has revealed an “informal” conversation went no further.
“We had an initial conversation in November. I went to speak to them (the FAI). Really informal, enjoyable, for around an hour. It went no further,” Carsley told Mail Sport.
“It was good to see what their thoughts were and to explore whether I was ready to take that next step. It just went no further. I didn’t push it.
“I’ve always said that I’m really privileged to do this job I’m in. I appreciate that I’m in a really good position with a lot of responsibility.
“There was a feeling that I would go and do a senior job after the summer but speaking to John McDermott and other people, I’m committed to this campaign.
“At some point, maybe it’s something I’ll do. I didn’t need convincing. I see myself as a development coach. I’ve not put myself out there, applying for jobs or anything.
“I definitely wouldn’t go down that route with the position I’m in and how lucky I am.”
John O’Shea is the current interim head coach as the FAI look for Stephen Kenny’s permanent replacement.
The Republic of Ireland face Belgium in their first match of 2024 on Saturday.