McDonald was approached by Steve Staunton to join the new international management set up soon after his own appointment and it was thought McDonald would combine this role in a parttime capacity with his coaching job at Villa Park.

However, Ellis was less than happy with the approach made to one of his employees and matters reached a stand off. The resolution involved the intervention of FAI chief executive, John Delaney . . . a request made by Staunton who was worried about the situation. Delaney finally managed to meet with Ellis after some logistical problems and a nominal fee, believed to be in the region of 10,000, was agreed so that McDonald could continue in both roles.