The former Boys in Green boss has returned to his old job after 16 years and is saying all the right things to win over Ireland's disillusioned fans
For the first time in months, there was a sense of excitement around the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on Sunday. But unlike previous times where there was a buzz around the home of Irish football, this time there were no supporters, just a lot of media members clamouring to get a snappy soundbite from the new man in charge of the Republic of Ireland national team, Mick McCarthy.
It was a stark contrast to the press conferences under his predecessor Martin O'Neill, who was surly and defensive as results, journalists and supporters all turned against him.