Men’s team ‘behind target’, admits FAI chief executive

The demise has been reflected in the plummet in FIFA rankings over Kenny’s three-year reign from 32 to 52 – their status of 27 in Europe falling short of the top 20 target set out in their strategic plan.

BEHIND TARGET: FAI Chief executive Jonathan Hill said that the men's team are behind target while the women and underage teams are well ahead. Pic: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Stephen Kenny’s name was conspicuous by its absence during Thursday night's FAI General Assembly meeting as his senior team’s failure to match strides of others was highlighted.

Defeats in the opening two games of the Euro 2024 campaign, coupled by playoff hopes receding from the improvements of rivals in separate groups, has left the FAI’s stated goal of qualification for Germany next year hanging by a thread.