Stephen Kenny: 'My dream is to carry on but my own instinct is that won’t happen'

Stephen Kenny admits he’s spoken to his players about his imminent exit from the job as he awaits his fare being sealed by the FAI.

Tuesday night's 1-1 draw against New Zealand marked the end of his 40-match, three-and-a-half-year stint in charge that sadly saw his team plummet in the world rankings and extend their tournament drought.

The FAI board will formalise his departure within the week with a new manager to be appointed following interviews with a few candidates planned this side of Christmas. Director of Football Marc Canham will lead the search in parallel with seeking to fill the women’s vacancy.

In emotional post-match interviews, Kenny conceded board members probably won’t look favourably on extending his contract when it concludes. He’s been left waiting for a decision until this year’s series ends.

“There’s a board meeting next week and a decision to make but I’ll respect whatever decision they make,” he said.

“I have no complaints (not being told). I have spoken to the players about that. It may well be my last match, that has been well-documented and if it is, so be it.

“My dream is to carry on but my own instinct is that won’t happen.

“There may not be the appetite for that and I respect that. 

"Sport is ruthless and international management, people get impatient and I get that as they want to qualify for tournaments. And so do I.”

Kenny dismissed the possibility of switching to an alternative role within the FAI.

“I don't see any other position in the organisation there. Everything is filled and I'm the manager. I see myself as the coach who loves the game, loves working with players constantly, driven to achieve things. If the decision is made, I see myself continuing as a manager, a head coach.”