Roy Keane is the man that Irish football fans want to take charge of the national team.
That’s according to a recent poll commissioned by BoyleSports asking Irish football fans a range of questions including who they feel will give the Republic of Ireland the best chance at World Cup qualification and how England will perform at the upcoming Euros.
Irish Fans Want Roy Keane To Be Next Manager
Republic of Ireland fans believe Roy Keane is the man the FAI should appoint to ensure the Boys in Green take part in the next major international tournament as kick-off in the Euros approaches.
A poll of 1,000 Irish football fans found 24 per cent wanted the former Manchester United midfielder to lead the Irish qualification bid for the World Cup in 2026, although interim boss John O’Shea was a popular second choice, close behind on 21 per cent.
‘Fanxieties’ Among Football Supporters
The research commissioned by BoyleSports revealed football supporters’ biggest 'fanxieties' ahead of Euro 2024 including penalty shootouts and VAR decisions, while other worries when watching the match included scoring too early in the game.
A spokesperson from BoyleSports, a betting provider known for its early payout offers, commented:
"While football fans are passionate about the game, it can also bring a fair amount of stress. Few supporters of an international team have had it all go their way but Irish fans will likely feel they’ve suffered more than most in recent years. They’ll only have a watching brief for the Euros, but they’re confident that Roy Keane or John O’Shea could finally turn their fortunes around.”
Irish Fans’ Prediction For Euro 2024
England To Face More Major Tournament Disappointment
While 11% of respondents admitted to secretly hoping England do well in Germany, a prominent worry among many Republic of Ireland fans is the prospect that this is finally the year for their arch rivals to go all the way. However, most are expecting The Three Lions to make an exit at the semi-final stage (34 per cent), while only seven per cent believe Gareth Southgate’s side will win the tournament.
France To Be Crowned Euro 2024 Champions
A whopping 40% reckon France will be champions for the first time since 2000 and third time overall, while 14% were keen to stick to the traditional adage of not writing off the Germans.
Republic of Ireland’s Absence Not Dampening Euro Excitement
And while fans of the Boys in Green have fears about what could happen, the research carried out through OnePoll for BoyleSports found there are things they’re certain of.
Unsurprisingly, a majority think the tournament would be better if the Republic of Ireland had qualified while a healthy 56 per cent are looking forward to the tournament regardless of Irish participation.
A spokesperson for BoyleSports added:
"Clearly ‘Fanxiety’ is a very real side effect of watching football and with just days to go until EURO 2024, Republic of Ireland fans might be having FOMO and of course feeling the pressure of just how far their rivals will go! However, we have some good news for fear riddled punters. BoyleSports is helping to alleviate ‘fanxiety’ around EURO 2024 by paying out early on selected games if your team goes 1-0 up, even if they go on to draw or lose!”
Check out the latest Euro 2024 Early Payout betting from BoyleSports.
Next Republic of Ireland Manager Poll Results
Which football manager do you think is most likely to ensure the Republic of Ireland men’s team qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
24% Roy Keane
21% John O’Shea
5% Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
5% David Moyes
4% Damien Duff
4% Kieran McKenna
3% Chris Hughton
3% Lee Carsley
2% Gus Poyet
2% Willy Sagnol
2% Slaven Bilic
2% Anthony Barry
1% Steve Bruce
1% Other
21% Not sure / no manager in particular
Bet on Euro 2024 at BoyleSports
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