A statement from general secretary of the Irish FA, David Bowen read: “The Irish FA confirms this morning that the international team manager, Sammy McIlroy, has officially resigned his position.

“He has advised that his decision was based entirely on a growing desire to return to the day-to-day cut and thrust of club management.

“He emphasised that in his four years as manager, he deeply appreciated the tremendous support that was given to him by the association, his squad members and, not least, the supporters who have backed him all the way.

“He wished the IFA and all concerned the very best for the future and especially his successor in the build-up to the World Cup qualifying series next year.”