Robbie Keane has confirmed he met Middlesbrough chiefs yesterday about becoming their new assistant manager.
If he joins the Championship club, he will continue to work as Mick McCarthy's assistant with the Republic of Ireland.
Jonathan Woodgate - a former Tottenham and Leeds United teammate of Keane's - is set to become the Championship club's new boss.
Keane wants a few days to consider the offer but insists it won't affect his role as Ireland's NO 2.
Speaking in Crumlin today, Keane said: "I've been asked. I met them yesterday and flew into Dublin this morning.
"They want me to come in as assistant manager and it's up to me to think about it. It won't affect me here which is key.
"I spoke to Mick McCarthy about it and said under no circumstances would I take it if had to leave Ireland and he was delighted with that.
"He said 'you're not f******g leaving here. They were his actual words. So it's up to me. I love working with Ireland and Mick has been great.
"I've been so busy with the Ireland games and I've not really spoken to my wife about it.
"I flew over to meet the Middlesbrough chairman yesterday and we had a good meal and conversation. It's exciting but the most important thing is I'm not leaving Ireland."
Keane continued: "It's happened so quickly. I've known Woody for 20 years and he's a good friend but I have to think about it.
"I saw on the news a few weeks ago that he might get the job, but I never thought he would call me. But he called me first so I must not be a bad fella!"
Roy Keane previously juggled a No 2 role with Ireland and Aston Villa and his namesake Robbie added today: "It 100% can work.
"Management is my long term plan but I'm not rushing into it. Marcello Lippi said to me last year on holidays 'Robbie, don't rush, you have 40-years in management'."
- Robbie Keane was speaking on a visit to Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin
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