Republic of Ireland

5 notable managers who have returned to former roles

| 25 November 2018

5 notable managers who have returned to former roles

Mick McCarthy is embarking on a second stint as Republic of Ireland boss.

Mick McCarthy has returned to the Republic of Ireland to take over as national team manager, 16 years after his first spell in charge ended.

Here, Press Association Sport looks at five high-profile bosses who have gone back to somewhere familiar.

JOSE MOURINHO (Chelsea, June 2004-Sept 2007; June 2013-December 2015)

Mourinho established Chelsea, in each of his spells, as England's top side. But the Portuguese completed just three full seasons in his first stint and two campaigns second time around, after dips in form.

Jose Mourinho new Chelsea manager — Jose Mourinho had two stints as manager of Chelsea (PA Archive)

KEVIN KEEGAN (Newcastle, Feb 1992-Jan 1997; Jan 2008-Sept 2008)

The Magpies challenged Manchester United all the way for the 1995-96 Premier League title, but Keegan's flamboyant team fell short. More than a decade later, his reign was less impressive.

Soccer – Kevin Keegan – Radio Interview – BBC Radio Newcastle — Kevin Keegan's first spell at Newcastle was more successful than his second (PA Archive)

HARRY REDKNAPP (Portsmouth, Mar 2002-Nov 2004; Dec 2007-Oct 2008)

After leaving for arch-rivals Southampton, Redknapp returned and won the 2008 FA Cup before departing for Tottenham, leaving the sinking ship that was Portsmouth.

Portsmouth v Manchester City — Harry Redknapp with a manager of the month award at Fratton Park in 2004 (PA Archive)

HOWARD KENDALL (Everton, Aug 1981-May 1987; Nov 1990-Dec 1993; Aug 1997-May 1998)

Had three spells in charge of the Toffees, leading them to two league titles, one FA Cup and the Cup Winners' Cup in the first. The two returns were underwhelming.

Soccer – Today League Division One – Everton v Queens Park Rangers – Goodison Park — Howard Kendall was a hit first time around at Everton (PA Archive)

STEVE COPPELL (Crystal Palace, 1984-1993; 1995-1996; 1997-1998; 1999-2000)

Coppell kept coming back for more and managed Palace on four occasions. A team featuring Ian Wright, Mark Bright and Geoff Thomas reached the 1990 FA Cup final, losing in a replay to Manchester United.

Coppell at Palace — Steve Coppell had four stints as Crystal Palace boss (PA Archive)

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