Same old story for Ireland as players leave it slip

The high point of Mick McCarthy’s reign as Ireland manager (with the lowest point thrown in for good measure) was leading Ireland to a terrific showing at the 2002 World Cup finals.

But when he struggled to emulate that success next time around, it was bye bye Mick.

Next, Brian Kerr came and went. After that, it was the brief and dispiriting turn of Steve Staunton.