Shock for Stephen Kenny and Ireland but Damien Duff decision months in the making

The Irish Examiner can reveal how the Ireland centurion had been willing to tender his resignation in November

Republic of Ireland coach Damien Duff (left) and manager Stephen Kenny during the training session at the FAI National Training Centre, Abbotstown, Ireland.

When Damien Duff contacted Stephen Kenny over Christmas to let him know that he wished to leave his role on the Republic of Ireland coaching staff, the manager was understandably taken aback.

But this was not a complete bolt from the blue, as the Irish Examiner can reveal how the Ireland centurion had been willing to tender his resignation during a fraught meeting with former FAI interim CEO Gary Owens back in November.