Aldridge disappointed by bid failure

Former Republic of Ireland striker John Aldridge confessed Scotland and Ireland’s failure to win the race to host Euro 2008 had been “extremely disappointing”.

Austria and Switzerland were today named by UEFA as joint hosts for the event as Gaelic hopes were dashed and Aldridge claimed the decision represented a missed opportunity to encourage youngsters to take up football.

He told Sky Sports News: “It is extremely disappointing. We have had fantastic support from Irish and Scottish fans over the years and they been great ambassadors for their countries.

“I remember the effect Euro 88 had with the younger people of Ireland with players - 2008 would have only enhanced us for the coming years.

“When you look at the stadiums, especially in Scotland, it would have been absolutely unbelievable.”

Aldridge drew some comfort from steps taken by the Government to build a new national stadium to replace Lansdowne Road.

He added: “One thing we will put in place is the stadiums in Ireland and in four five years we should have a couple of new stadiums.

“The national stadium will be put in place in the future and that is probably the only good thing to come out of it.”