John Fallon: Ireland must move to secure Hallgrímsson’s future

Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson took personal responsibility for the 2-1 defeat in Armenia 10 weeks ago, wondering aloud in a meeting with FAI powerbrokers whether this reign was working out.

For getting Ireland to the World Cup play-offs, Heimir Hallgrímsson deserves a contract extension. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

A week like no other for the Irish football team has sparked cautionary tales of savouring the moment but that shouldn’t neglect futureproofing.

The FAI were rightly lambasted for failing to invest the fruits of three major tournaments between 1988-1994 into domestic care and it's incumbent on this leadership to start planning regardless of what transpires from the World Cup playoffs in March.