Doubts over Staunton's future

FAI fail to back under-fire Republic manager

By Andrew Scurr   Last updated: 19th October 2007

Doubts over Staunton's future

Staunton: Under pressure

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Steve Staunton's future as Republic of Ireland manager appears in doubt after the Football Association of Ireland failed to publicly back him.

Staunton has come under increased pressure after a disappointing Euro 2008 campaign and some awful performances, notably in the midweek home draw against Cyprus.

John Delaney has hinted that the FAI will be getting together to discuss the managerial situation in the near future.

But rather than give Staunton his support, the chief executive has attempted to distance himself from the blame for appointing the former international defender in 2006.

"It was very clear that three people were involved when Steve was appointed," Delaney told RTE.

"It was a sub-committee of the FAI of three people who made the appointment of the management team.

"It's unfortunate that I've been personally linked to the appointment when it was a decision of a committee of 10."

Crisis

The FAI could hold a meeting as soon as this weekend, which could signal the end for Staunton, who is half way through a four-year contract.

Delaney added: "This is the third or fourth 'crisis' around the management. It is important board members get time to reflect on recent performances.

"We had it after Cyprus, we had it after San Marino, we had it after Prague. So people are getting conditioned to this sort of crisis."