The FAI have confirmed that Mick McCarthy's second reign as Republic of Ireland manager is over.
Irish football's governing body informed McCarthy and his assistant Terry Connor of their decision to honour Stephen Kenny's contract, which begins on August 1st.
Former Dundalk boss Kenny will now be in charge of the team for their Euro 2020 playoff semi-final away to Slovakia this autumn.
FAI thank Mick McCarthy as Stephen Kenny takes up Ireland job with immediate effect
➡️ https://t.co/A0eqQz94n7 #COYBIG?? pic.twitter.com/GBUfK3rcte— FAIreland ⚽️?? (@FAIreland) April 4, 2020
Interim FAI CEO Gary Owens said:
"This has been a difficult situation for the Association - and for Mick and Stephen in particular - in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and the effect it has had on the football calendar.
"On behalf of President Gerry McAnaney, the Board of the FAI and myself, I want to thank both men for their professionalism and their understanding in their dealings with the Association in these unprecedented circumstances. These are exceptional times in Irish life and Mick has taken that into account in agreeing to vacate the post early.
"On behalf of the FAI, I wish to express our gratitude to Mick for his service and commitment to our national team throughout his career and particularly in his second spell as Ireland manager. We wish Mick and his staff well and we thank them all for their hard work in this European Championship campaign to date."
