Shaqiri free kick hands Swiss victory over Ireland

The Republic of Ireland fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat by Euro 2024-bound Switzerland in a low-key friendly in Dublin. Xherdan Shaqiri struck the winner in the 23rd minute when he curled a free-kick into the bottom corner. Granit Xhaka hit the post from 40 yards as he almost capitalised on a poor clearance by Gavin Bazunu.

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Ferguson sees penalty saved as Ireland draw with Belgium

Evan Ferguson missed an early penalty for the Republic as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Belgium in a friendly at the Aviva Stadium. In John O’Shea’s first game as interim manager, Ferguson saw his tame spot-kick saved by Belgium goalkeeper Matz Sels. The Boys in Green more than impressed albeit against a much changed Belgian side that was without the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne.

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John O’Shea appointed interim Republic of Ireland manager

The FAI’s long search for a new permanent head coach is set to continue with the association announcing that an appointment will be made in early April, with John O’Shea today named interim boss for the March window. The former Man United player will be assisted for Paddy McCarthy for the games against Belgium and Switzerland.

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Birmingham sack manager Wayne Rooney after 15 games

Birmingham City have sacked manager Wayne Rooney after just 83 days in charge of the Championship club. The 38-year-old was appointed on 11 October following the controversial decision to dismiss John Eustace, with Blues sixth in the table. Since then they have slipped to 20th, Monday’s 3-0 loss at Leeds having been the ninth defeat of his 15-game tenure.

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Sam Allardyce expresses interest in Ireland job

Former England boss Sam Allardyce has admitted he would be interested in the Ireland job and added it “would be nice” to get to the interview stage of the process. The FAI are in the midst of their search for Stephen Kenny’s successor having dismissed the Dubliner following the conclusion of the 2023 international season.

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