Gloves off as Vera Pauw criticises FAI over contract delay

The prospect of a contract extension appears further away than ever following the Ireland manager's comments in the past 48 hours.

Manager Vera Pauw and Megan Connolly during a Republic of Ireland press conference at Brisbane Stadium in Brisbane, Australia, ahead of their final Group B match of the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, against Nigeria. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

The standoff between the FAI and Vera Pauw over a contract renewal has escalated after the Irish boss openly criticised her employers on the eve of their final World Cup game.

Monday's meeting with Group B leaders Nigeria is officially Pauw’s last game under contract and the prospect of an extension appears further away than ever following her comments in the past 48 hours.