Gus Poyet says time is not right to take Ireland job

Mon, 29 Jan, 2024 - 15:44

Michael Bolton

Greece manager Gus Poyet has said "the time is not right" to take over as the Republic of Ireland manager.

The FAI have been on the lookout for a new manager since November, after Stephen Kenny's time in charge came to an end after failing to qualify for EURO 2024.

England U21 manager and former Ireland midfielder Lee Carsley was heavily linked with the role, but as reportedly turned it down.

Poyet, who managed Greece to two wins over Ireland in the qualifying campaign, appeared to express interest in the role after Greece's win over Ireland in October.

However, Poyet has clarified those comments, and told Breakingnews.ie his focus is preparing Greece for their EURO 2024 play-off in March.

"When I was here with Greece, I was very happy with the support of the national team. It was a proper, proper football night, the type of one that makes you play.

"I think it was important to say that because it was a great night.

"I say the truth, I think it is an incredible place. To manage a national team like that would be a privilege, and to play with that support would be spectacular.

"Saying that, right now, the timing is not right. I have got the play-off, I am focused on the play-off. Nothing changes, nobody has contacted me, there is nothing."

The former Chelsea player also revealed he has not been offered a new contract by Greece. As it stands, Poyet's contract runs out after the play-offs.

After finishing behind France and the Netherlands in Ireland's group, Greece face Kazakhstan, and will face the winners of Georgia v Luxembourg if they win.

The former Brighton and Sunderland manager said he has not received contact from the FAI, with his contract urning out on March 31st with Greece, and has not been offered an extension should they qualify for the Euro's this summer.

"I would say two things. One, maybe I am not what they are looking for, which is totally fair. Secondly, they are very, very respectful because I am under contract and they don't want to talk."