Richard Dunne says FAI could be in awkward position if games go well for O'Shea

John O'Shea and Richard Dunne during their Republic of Ireland playing days

Richard Dunne says the Football Association of Ireland could be in an awkward position if things go well for interim Republic of Ireland boss John O'Shea in this month's friendlies.

O'Shea will take charge against Belgium and Switzerland on 23 and 26 March.

The FAI said on Monday that "existing contractual arrangements" were delaying an appointment until next month.

"They are almost shooting themselves in the foot by giving it to John," said O'Shea's former Irish team-mate Dunne.

"Get two great results and everyone [the fans] wants him to stay and then they [the FAI] want to move on with somebody else. It puts the pressure on that new person as well."

The FAI's original intention was to announce a new manager before the Uefa Nations League draw on 8 February.

England Under-21 boss Lee Carsley was believed to be the FAI's preferred candidate but negotiations with the former Republic midfielder apparently stalled and he is preparing the Under-21s for games against Azerbaijan and Luxembourg later this month as they begin the defence of their European title.

Those games take place on 22 and 26 March and it remains to be seen whether Carsley will be Stephen Kenny's successor when the FAI's latest target date in early April arrives.

Dunne added that the "ideal world" would have had a successor to Stephen Kenny now in place.

"It's clear to everyone they've had three months now to try and find someone and get him in but for whatever reason, they've not got around to doing it," added the former Manchester City and Everton defender.

"If next month they hire someone who everyone is delighted with, and it's just that it's taken a little bit longer that people expected, everyone will be fine with that.

"But the ideal situation would be that he's here but I'm sure that with John O'Shea he's going in there, he'll do a really good job and maybe even put his name in the frame for this time or possibly next time."