Newcastle United manager supporters still love poised for shock international job

Chris Hughton has emerged as a shock favourite to become the Republic of Ireland manager.

The 65-year-old has been out of work since his departure from Ghana earlier this year. Hughton was fired after failing to get the Black Stars out of the group stage at the African Cup of Nations.

Likewise, Ireland are yet to replace Stephen Kenny after deciding against renewing his contract at the back end of last year. Former Manchester United and Sunderland defender John O’Shea has led the team on an interim basis, earning a valiant draw with Belgium but losing at home to Switzerland.

He was widely expected to take charge but bookmakers now make Hughton a 2/1 favourite. Still a revered figure at Newcastle United, the experienced manager was instrumental in guiding the club back to the Premier League in 2009-10.

Many expected the Magpies to plummet through the divisions but Hughton rallied the troops in his first full-time managerial role. A long-time part of the coaching setup, Hughton had taken caretaker responsibility on several occasions before landing the permanent gig.

Newcastle’s return to the top flight at the first time of asking was soon followed by memorable wins over Aston Villa, Sunderland and Arsenal. However, Mike Ashley brutally axed the popular manager - replacing him with Alan Pardew - despite the club sitting 12th in the table.

Hughton later earned promotion with Brighton and had a spell at Norwich City before poor stints at Nottingham Forest and Ghana. Also in the running for the Irelands job are Steve Bruce (4/1), Lee Carsley (11/2) and Willy Sagnol (10/1).