FAI 'would allow Martin O'Neill to join Leicester City as manager'

The Football Association of Ireland will reportedly not stand in Martin O'Neill's way if he decides to take up the managerial vacancy at Leicester City.

The 63-year-old, who managed the Foxes from 1995 to 2000, has moved ahead of Bolton Wanderers boss Neil Lennon as favourite for the role.

Bookmaker William Hill has suspended betting on the Irishman taking over from Nigel Pearson, who was sacked by the club's Thai owners last month after his son James, who is a former Foxes player, was involved in a racist sex tape.

According to The Guardian, should Leicester be interested in bringing O'Neill back to the club, FAI officials will allow the coach to leave his role as Republic of Ireland manager.

O'Neill won two League Cups during his managerial spell at Leicester.