Kerr’s boys now rated 14th best side in the world

THE Republic of Ireland are up one place to 14th, in the latest world rankings issued by FIFA.

Brian Kerr's side are just one place behind Italy, whom they played in a friendly at Lansdowne Road last night.

France have slumped to their lowest position since winning the World Cup in 1998. The French, who also won the European title in 2000, are ranked ninth equal with Portugal after dropping two places.