Staunton still looking to the future

STEVE STAUNTON isn’t inclined to place too much store in the new FIFA World rankings which see the Republic of Ireland retain their lowly 49th position, now one behind Northern Ireland.

“The most important thing for me is that last week we got three points,” says the Irish manager.

Coming to the end of a turbulent first year in charge, Staunton remains upbeat about the quality and options at his disposal.