Report paves way for new era of Irish soccer

A whole new era lies ahead for the Republic of Ireland following the publication of the hard-hitting Genesis report which has already resulted in general secretary Brendan Menton resigning.

The independent report – commissioned by the Football Association of Ireland in the wake of the Roy Keane affair which wrecked the Republic’s World Cup preparations in Saipan last summer – urged sweeping changes within the association.

Manager Mick McCarthy resigned a week ago after growing criticism following two defeats in the Republic’s opening Euro 2004 qualifying games, although many believe his departure had more to do with the Keane row than anything else.

Menton succeeded chief executive Bernard O’Byrne in the reformed position of general secretary 18 months ago, but that post has now been scrapped.

His resignation is the initial consequence of the report which recommends a list of key changes, which includes the need to make four new senior appointments.

Menton, who will remain on in an advisory capacity until his contract runs out in six months, said: “I’ve been involved in football all my life and would like to remain involved.

“But at this point I recognise I can be much more effective in a different role.

“The structure of the FAI will change – and it has to change. I said I would appraise my own situation with a view to staying on or not after two years.

“This step has just come six months earlier – but I’m sure it’s the right move. It’s for personal and professional reasons.”

Senior FAI officials accepted fully the Genesis report and have agreed to implement the recommendations within it as soon as possible.

The report was conducted after interviews with 88 Irish football figures - including players, administrators and even media representatives.

Genesis’ Alastair Gray revealed Keane, who walked out of the Irish training base just before the World Cup, was also interviewed for one-and-a-half hours to aid the process of overhaul.

“Roy Keane was extremely helpful and forthright in the course of the interview,” said Gray.

“We were very pleased to have convinced him to take part.”

The FAI accept home truths and tough measures are part and parcel of what they hope will be a successful overhaul.

Treasurer John Delaney said: “The appointment of the key executives is likely to cost an additional €250,000 – but we don’t see this as too much of a price to pay to lay the future of the association in good stead.

“At the end of the day it’s not a question of money; it’s a question of absolutely having to change.”

Along with the new chief executive’s position, which will be filled in the next three months, the other four prescribed appointments cover the posts of director of performance, director of football operations, director of marketing and communications and director of finance and administration.

FAI President Milo Corcoran said: “This gives us an opportunity to make a fresh start.

“We will meet on November 29 to establish a means of delivering on the recommendations. We have one shot at getting this right and we’re convinced we will.”