Republic of Ireland boss Martin O'Neill has played down speculation linking his assistant Roy Keane with the vacant Sheffield Wednesday position.

The Manchester United legend was appointed as O'Neill's assistant only in November, but has already been linked with a different role, with Owls chairman Milan Mandaric recently stating that the 42-year-old is among the candidates to replace Dave Jones at Hillsborough.

When asked if the former Sunderland and Ipswich Town boss could quit his position in favour of the Wednesday job, the 61-year-old told reporters: "I would be surprised.

"I think Roy is really committed here. Does he want to go and manage on his own at some stage? I'd be wildly disappointed if he didn't.

"But this is a great opportunity for Roy and I think he wants it. That's my view on it. I didn't spend hours and hours talking to him about it, and he said I'd be the first to know whenever anybody comes in."

Keane has been out of management since parting company with the Tractor Boys in 2011 after a two-year spell at Portman Road.