Former Wales' international John Hartson says he will not pass comment on Martin O'Neill's future as Republic of Ireland manager.
Hartson joined Friday's OTBAM to talk about Ireland's humilitaing 4-1 defeat European Nation's League in Cardiff last night.
The Welshman spent man spent five-years playing under the Irish manager at Park Head from 2001-06.
The 43-year-old says he could not possibly comment on Martin O'Neill's future as manager of Republic of Ireland national team. He says they have an extremely close relationship from their time at Celtic Park.
"First and foremost, I have nothing but the utmost respect for Martin. I cant' really judge him as Republic of Ireland manager. I'm not partial to what goes on in the camp. What I would say is that: 'I would never, ever say a bad word against him,' said Hartson.
The former Celtic player says he will let the media and public speculate about O'Neill's future.
"It's not for me to speak about Martin. I will leave that to the press. You Irish aren't shy about coming forward; you like a bit of controversy, and a bit of a debate. So, I will leave that down to the Irish public, and football fans, that are very knowledgable.
Hartson stressed that he would not comment on the situation. He says he doesn't want to cause any headlines that may look unfavourable towards the Irish manager.
"I would rather stay out of that one. Martin for myself is a great friend, and it wouldn't be appropriate for me to comment on his situation as Irish manager. I just won't go there; I don't want to cause any unsavoury headlines.
The Swansea native says the nature of his relationship with O'Neill is not one that he would put in jeopardy. Hartson compared O'Neill to a father figure.
"I'm always very honest with you boys. I'm always very upfront but when it comes to a delicate situation for me and Martin O'Neill - who was almost like a father figure to me, for five-years at Celtic. So, I will leave that up to you guys to debate, if you don't mind."
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