Euro Championships may be expanded to 24 teams

Franz Beckenbauer has hinted that UEFA could be on the brink of expanding the European Championship to 24 teams.

The former German star, who is now an official with European football's governing body, has suggested that the proposed expansion could be ratified this morning.

The move would add an extra eight teams to the championship, making it easier for sides like Ireland to qualify.

Ireland have only reached the finals of the competition once in their history, under Jack Charlton in 1988.