JOHN PEMBERTON, the Leeds United defender, is ready to declare for the Republic of Ireland. Pernberton (31) is the latest English-born player to declare an interest in playing for Ireland. Earlier reports had linked the player with Wales.

Ironically, it was only after the Welsh manager, Bobby Gould began to probe his family background that his Irish roots were proved to be more authentic.

was always aware that my Dad's mother came from Ireland but the fact is that I wasn't aware that it qualified me to play for the Republic" he said. "Technically I am also eligible to represent Wales. but given the choice I, would opt for Ireland. The style of football appeals to me and I would like to be considered for selection.

There was a time when Jack Charlton had plenty of cover at centre back, but that situation has sadly long since changed. With Paul McGrath reaching the end of a superb career, the new manager, when he is appointed may have cause to accept Pemberton's offer.

Meanwhile, the six-man selection committee appointed by the FAI to bring back a recommendation to the executive committee in the search for a successor to Jack Charlton met again in Dublin yesterday. Although no statement was issued it is understood that it was agreed to proceed with the second round of interviews next week.

A spokesman declined to speculate on those likely to be called for a second meeting but the certainty is that the list will include Mick McCarthy and Joe Kinnear.

There is also some indication that the FAI will want to meet Mike Walker again before the managerial position is filled by the third week of February.

The need to proceed as quickly as possible was echoed yesterday by a spokesman for the Millwall club who said that it was in the best interests of all concerned that an early appointment should be made.

Stressing that a long drawn out process could hamper Mick MeCarthy's chances of getting the club back into line for promotion. he said that the present uncertainty was not designed to help either club or manager.

Wimbledon are also understood to be concerned about what is perceived to be a dragging of feet at Merrion Square. But an FAI official yesterday rejected allegations that the process was being unduly prolonged and said that they were still on target to make an appointment by the third week in February.

There was no sign of white smoke rising above Lancaster Gate, yesterday as the English FA continues its quest for a new leader writes Glenn Moore.

"They met for 90 minutes and they had tea, coffee and sandwiches. That is all I can tell you," said the FA's press officer of the first step in finding a new national coach.

The news black-out is unlikely to last for long but, even now, it is not hard to deduce the FA's next move. It is likely to involve Jimmy Armfield, the FA's Coachfinder General, who came up with Terry Venables' selection two years ago, heading north-east, to see if Bryan Robson and Kevin Keegan are serious in their protestations of disinterest.

Gerry Francis, at Tottenham, will also get a call, but it is Robson who remains the FA's favoured choice. He has the backing of Venables, who brought the Middlesbrough manager into the England squad as coach. He has the players' respect. He is also likely to be easier to prise away from Middlesbrough than Keegan is from Newcastle.

Keegan's emotional attachment to St James' Park, and the prospect of competing in the Champions League next season, is likely to keep him at Newcastle.