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Stephen Kenny to replace Mick McCarthy as Ireland boss despite Euro 2020 postponement

McCarthy was 'proud' of his players, despite their failure to secure automatic qualification: PA
McCarthy was 'proud' of his players, despite their failure to secure automatic qualification: PA

Stephen Kenny will replace Mick McCarthy as Republic of Ireland boss with immediate effect, despite the postponement of Euro 2020.

The coronavirus outbreak has seen the tournament pushed back exactly twelve months, to the summer of 2021.

McCarthy was due to step down from his role when his contract expires on July 31 this year, with U21s coach Kenny in line to take over, and the FAI have decided to accelerate that handover.

Ireland have not yet qualified for the European Championships, and were due to face Slovakia in a play-off semi-final, with the winner playing either Bosnia & Herzegovina or Northern Ireland for a finals place. However, those matches have also been postponed, with the new date yet to be confirmed.

(Action Images via Reuters)
(Action Images via Reuters)

An FAI statement said: "The handover has been agreed with both men in light of the delay to the European Championship play-offs caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Mick's contract was due to expire on 31 July after the Euro 2020 finals, with Stephen initially scheduled to step up from his Under-21 role on 1 August.

"This move allows Stephen time to plan for the European Championship play-off semi-final against Slovakia later in the year."