Stephen Kenny allowed a stay of execution but little hope of changing FAI minds

Association chiefs are happy to let the Ireland manager's contract wind down. 

IN DEMAND: Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny with supporters after the UEFA European Under-21 Championship Qualifier match against San Marino at Turner’s Cross. Picture: Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile

A slow death – the antithesis of Stephen Kenny’s style of football can now be applied to the twilight of his reign as Ireland manager.

Following the team’s virtual elimination from the Euro qualifiers, a slip-up by Netherlands against Gibraltar among the permutations required for a miracle, the FAI faced a dilemma.