Never fear, Aldo's here............................
Aldridge declares Irish interest
John Aldridge is ready, willing and able to assist the Republic of Ireland in any capacity.
The 49-year-old, who earned 69 caps for the Republic as a player, has decided not to apply for the vacant manager's job after twice being turned down for the role in the past.
But the former Liverpool striker, whose sole job in management was a five-year spell in charge of Tranmere that ended six years ago, would be interested in assisting the new regime.
'Obviously as a coach you've got to be interested in managing your country,' Aldridge said on Sky Sports News.
'Being able to work for your country in any capacity would be interesting.'
He added: 'I was interested the last couple of times when I put my name in the hat. It wasn't to be so third time lucky... you never know. I've never really given it thought in all honesty.'
Aldridge has also told Stephen Ireland to demonstrate the desire to get himself back into the Republic squad.
The Manchester City midfielder was left out of the party for the final European Championship qualifier against Wales in the wake of the latest incident in what has been a troubled couple of months for the 21-year-old.
Aldridge said: 'He's a very, very good player. I think Stephen really has to look at how much he wants to play for his country.
'First and foremost, when he gets the opportunity next time, he mustn't make the slip-ups he has in the past.
'He's going to be very influential for the future of Irish football for me. He's the type of player that we need. He's got to really want it badly.'
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