Republic of Ireland sack O’Neill and Keane

The Football Association of Ireland have parted company with their entire coaching staff, most notably manager Martin O’Neill and assistant Roy Keane.

The decision follows a poor UEFA Nations League campaign where they finished bottom of their Group with two draws and two defeats, failing to score a single goal in the process. O’Neill had signed a contract extension in January to remain as manager until 2020 so clearly something else is afoot.

“I thank Martin, Roy, and the management team for the impact they had,” said Football Association of Ireland (FAI) chief John Delaney.

“There have been many highlights during Martin’s reign – none more so than Euro 2016 in France, which will live long in the memory of all Irish supporters.”

The side did not win a competitive game in 2018 and were relegated from UEFA Nations League Group B4, a group that contained Denmark and Wales.

Rumours of bust ups between players and Keane had been circulating especially with Cardiff’s Harry Arter.

O’Neill and Keane leave alongside Steve Guppy and goalkeeping coach Seamus McDonagh.