Stephen Kenny: ‘It would be a dream to carry on but my instinct is that is not going to happen’

Ireland boss Stephen Kenny

Ireland boss Stephen Kenny Credit: Conor Ryan (ETPhotos)

Andrew Dempsey reports from the Aviva Stadium

Ireland boss Stephen Kenny cut an emotional figure as the end of his reign as the boss edges even closer.

The Boys in Green were held to a 1-1 draw by New Zealand in front of just 26,517 supporters at the Aviva Stadium.

And with Kenny’s contract with the FAI set to expire this month, the end is nigh having missed out on qualification for Euro 2024.

“Of course it would be a dream to carry on but my instinct is that is not going to happen and the evidence would suggest it’s not going to happen,” he said.

“From my point of view, it is a huge honour to manage my country. It was an emotional dressing room. The players are only going to improve.

“The support I have had throughout the country has been magnificent..”

Asked if he would be as proud to manage any other side in his managerial career, he added:  “No, nothing could ever. 

“Irish supporters have been great home and away. There have been full crowds at home and big crowds away. There was such a rebuild and we’ve had our setbacks. 

“But it’s been amazing to know every one of those players in the dressing room.”



The game also brought an end to James McClean’s international career after the former Derry City winger made 103 appearances for the Boys in Green.

That, and the uncertainty around Kenny’s future meant there was an emotional feeling in the Ireland dressing after the game.

“It’s an incredible group of people and I’m privileged to get to know and be part of their international careers. It’s a really good squad now. 

“If you put your best squad up there now, 90% of their careers are on an upward trajectory. They will only get better in their clubs. 

“Not long ago, I had eight players in League One and now we have none. It’s a very strong squad going forward.”

But while there has been a radical shift in the age profile of the Ireland team during his tenure, Kenny admits there might not be a case for him to stay in charge.



“There may not be the appetite for that and I respect it,” he added. “Sport is ruthless and so is international management. 

“People get impatient and I get that as they want to qualify for tournaments. So do I. 

“We will have to see. I’ve had amazing support from my staff.

“It’s been an amazing journey with the 21s and the last three years with the senior team.”

About Andrew Dempsey

View Full Profile