Bruce fancies a crack at managing the Republic of Ireland

Steve Bruce feels the Republic of Ireland job "would suit me" as he considers a return to management. 

The Football Association of Ireland made a swift announcement that Stephen Kenny’s deal would not be extended following the end of a disappointing Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, which saw his side win just two of eight matches. 

Their search for a new boss has already started, with a review of the coaching staff set to take place once an appointment has been made ahead of friendlies in March and June 2024. 

Bruce, 62, has been out of the game since leaving West Brom in October 2022. 

But the former Newcastle, Sheffield Wednesday and Aston Villa boss told Ladbrokes Fanzone: "I'm led to believe I'm there or thereabouts in the betting for the Ireland job. 

"It's a job that would interest me, that's for sure. 

"I've had a bit of time out and I'm itching to get back into the game. Something like that would suit me. 

"Let's see if the phone rings. Are they going to make an approach? At this moment in time, I really don't know. 

"But I've seen the betting sites and read the rumours, like everybody else. At the moment I can't really comment on it because there's been no connection."

After moving into management following the end of his playing career, former Manchester United defender Bruce also had spells at Sheffield United, Huddersfield, Wigan, Crystal Palace, Birmingham, Sunderland and Hull. 

He added: "It's time that I go back to work again. I'm itching to go back in, not necessarily as a manager. 

"I wouldn't mind helping a young manager, helping a club in any way. 

"I’d like to think that after 46 years, if someone asked me a question about football, I'd be able to answer it. 

"I'd like to get back involved in some capacity. If it's management, great. If it's not, that's also fine. 

"Maybe consultancy, something along those lines. That sporting director role rings a nice bell for me. I think that would be a nice gig."