DUBLIN, Nov 9 (SW) – Former England boss Terry Venables has emerged as the new favourite to land the vacant Ireland job, after bookmakers suspended betting on his appointment as Brian Kerr’s successor.

The Football Association of Ireland are still searching for a new national manager, following the exit of Brian Kerr last month, and a number of managers including the likes of Martin O’Neill, George Burley and David O’Leary were linked to the currently-vacant managerial position.

It now appears former Spurs, Leeds and Middlesbrough manager Terry Venables would also be in the FAI’s frame, with some heavy backing for the former England tactician from the punters forcing a number of leading bookmakers to suspend the betting on the Ireland open position.

Venables, who also had a spell as Australia national manager, had led England to the semi-finals of Euro 96.