Venables for Ireland top job?

Steve McClaren's former assistant, who was sacked by the English FA on Thursday, started the day at 2.75 (7/4) and has been cut to 1.80 (4/5).

Liam Brady is now the 6.00 (5/1) second favourite, with David O'Leary and Gerrard Houllier both priced at7.00 (6/1).

Ladbrokes spokesman Robin Hutchison said: "Given the FAI's propensity for ageing Englishmen it's hard not to make Venables odds on."