Republic of Ireland caretaker coach John O'Shea believes his old Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson called him last week.

O'Shea has been named short-term coach for the upcoming international programme.

“I still would be in contact with him now and again," O'Shea said of Ferguson.

"I had a missed call from a no caller ID on Thursday evening and the only one who still calls me on no caller ID is Sir Alex.

“I missed him, so I'm sure he'll get back in touch in the next few days because anytime I've gone into a club or got involved with something, he's always got in touch. I know he's in good form and jet-setting around the world winning trophies still within the thoroughbred industry."

On the permanent job, O'Shea said: “Ultimately for me, I am focused on these two games and then we will see what happens then.

“In my head I have been preparing for certain opportunities like this for a long time. It's two games but in my head I have been preparing since my late twenties/thirty, that I am going to get involved in the coaching and management side of things. It's been in the thought process for a while.

“I would feel I am ready (for the permanent role if offered) but ultimately am fully focused on these two games, getting the squad together and preparing everyone for that. Whatever happens after that we'll see."