Stephen Kenny signs new contract as Republic of Ireland manager

Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny has signed a new contract to extend his tenure with the team until after Euro 2024.

The former Dundalk manager’s initial deal was due to expire this summer.

Kenny’s suitability for the job was questioned throughout the early stages of his reign when his side failed to win in their first 11 matches.

However, fortunes have since changed. Ireland have now lost just one game in their last 10 matches – which was a last minute concession away to Portugal – and they have scored 18 goals during an impressive run of form that finished out the World Cup qualifying campaign.

Kenny has also handed 16 players a competitive debut.

The UEFA Nations League campaign is next up in terms of competitive action for the Republic of Ireland in June as they face Ukraine, Scotland and Armenia in Group B.

Friendlies with Belgium and Lithuania take place later this month.

Assistant manager Keith Andrews and Kenny’s coaching team of Dean Kiely, Stephen Rice and Damien Doyle will have had their deals extended.

Anthony Barry who departed for Belgium earlier this year will be replaced in due course.

Kenny said: “I consider it the ultimate honour to manage my country and I am delighted to extend my contract.

“The players are incredibly proud to play for Ireland and in recent performances we have witnessed a powerful connection between the team and the Irish supporters.

“The attitude of the players has been exceptional, we have seen the team grow and develop and I, together with Keith Andrews and all of the staff, look forward to seeing the team fulfil its potential.

“With the recent return of supporters to stadiums, I want to acknowledge the importance of the passionate Irish fans both home and away.”

Kenny also thanked FAI CEO Jonathan Hill and the board.

Hill said he was delighted to seal the deal on the instruction of the asssociation.

FAI chairman Roy Barrett said the governing body “believe” in Kenny amid a changing landscape in Irish football.

“The Ireland fans have already shown their commitment to this Ireland team with record season ticket sales and I am sure they will be delighted by this news as are all the FAI board. It comes at a time when the return of League of Ireland football has engendered great interest and excitement.

“Stephen and many of his players had their grounding in our League and grassroots game and we look forward to many more of these players emerging into our national teams in the years ahead.

“Like those supporters, we believe in Stephen and in his players and this contract extension is a show of faith in the future of Irish football.”