FAI: No sack for Stan, even if beaten by Czechs

Football Association of Ireland president David Blood has insisted Steve Staunton’s position as manager is not under threat – even if the team lose to the Czech Republic tomorrow.

Staunton has faced heavy criticism following Saturday’s 5-2 defeat to Cyprus in a Euro 2008 qualifier, with the suggestion the axe is to fall should a fifth successive loss follow against the Czechs.