Kerr coy as captain Cunningham retires
Republic of Ireland manager Brian Kerr refused to talk about his own future - but it is the end of the international road for captain Kenny Cunningham following the team’s failure to qualify for the World Cup.
Ireland suffered another night of bitter disappointment as they were held to a goalless draw by Switzerland at Lansdowne Road in a game they needed to win to clinch a play-off place.
The speculation over the coming days will now intensify with regard to the future of Kerr, whose contract is now up, unless the employers within the FAI make a swift and decisive announcement.
Kerr’s feelings on the matter are quite clear, but he has only shared them with the FAI, refusing to do so with the general public when again asked in the immediate aftermath of tonight’s game.
“The Association are quite clear about what I would like to do,” said Kerr.
“I don’t think it’s fair for me to say anything here. It has been brought up often enough in recent months and has been discussed around the block by everyone.
“The only thing I have said has been turned and twisted on its head because I answered a question honestly at a press conference announcing the squad a while ago.”
That comment refers to Kerr stating he had been privately trying to find out the situation regarding his future as the FAI have been stonewalling.
Kerr added: “I am not going to say any more about it no matter how many different ways you ask me the question.”
For long-serving skipper Cunningham, however, tonight was his final match for Ireland, at the age of 34 and after winning 72 caps.
“It’s the end of the road for me without a doubt,” said Cunningham.
“I don’t want to dwell on it too much. I feel uncomfortable speaking about my personal position on what is a hugely disappointing night for the entire group.
“I feel for our supporters and everybody who has got behind the team, and I am sorry we have come up short.”
