Tallaght’s Stephen Kenny extends contract as Ireland manager

STEPHEN Kenny will manage Ireland into the 2024 UEFA European Championship campaign following the news this evening that the FAI has extended his contract.

The Tallaght man was appointed manager in April 2020 following the departure of Mick McCarthy, with his team enjoying a good spell of results last year which has led to his extension.

On the instruction of the Board of the FAI, the agreement was successfully negotiated by FAI Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Hill after extensive and productive talks with Stephen.

The FAI also confirmed new contracts have been agreed for Assistant Manager Keith Andrews and Stephen’s coaching team of Dean Kiely, Stephen Rice and Damien Doyle. An assistant coach will be appointed by Stephen Kenny in due course.

Stephen Kenny said: “I consider it the ultimate honor to manage my country and I am delighted to extend my contract. The players are incredibly proud to play for Ireland and in recent performances we have witnessed a powerful connection between the team and the Irish supporters.

“The attitude of the players has been exceptional, we have seen the team grow and develop and I, together with Keith Andrews and all of the staff, look forward to seeing the team fulfil its potential.

“With the recent return of supporters to stadiums, I want to acknowledge the importance of the passionate Irish fans both home and away. Finally, I want to express my appreciation to Jonathan and the Board of the FAI for sharing our belief in the International Squad.”

Welcoming the contract extension that commences with immediate effect, FAI CEO Jonathan Hill said: “On behalf of everyone at the Association I am delighted to announce this news today.

“The Board gave me clear instructions to agree a deal that sees Stephen in charge for the upcoming UEFA Nations League and Euro 2024 campaigns at a time when there is so much excitement about the future of this young and emerging Ireland squad.

“Stephen and I have agreed on that deal now and we look forward to working together as he seeks to guide Ireland to the next European Championship finals.”