Coming away from Friday's game, it was frightening to see the differences between Ireland and Greece during their Euro 2024 qualifier at the Aviva Stadium.
The two sides may be in similar positions in the world rankings, but that is where the similarities end. Whereas the Greeks were decisive in their actions and played with a clear purpose, Ireland seemed to struggle on both sides of the ball. They looked questionable out of possession and also failed to break down the opposition defence.
In most cases, those issues can come down to coaching.
Stephen Kenny has done plenty of good during his time as Ireland manager, namely bringing through young players and attempting to get the side playing a more progressive style of football. Unfortunately, he is now struggling to help them take the next step in their development, something that is likely to cost him his job.
With his future very much in doubt, a number of potential options have been suggested as replacements. As it turns out, one of them may have been in the neighbouring dugout at the Aviva Stadium a couple of days ago.
Gus Poyet admits interest in Ireland job
Gus Poyet has done a brilliant job with Greece since taking over in early 2022, leading them to promotion from 'League C' of the UEFA Nations League and now has given them a real chance of qualifying for Euro 2024 if they can overcome the Netherlands in Athens tomorrow night.
He has a contract in place until the end of 2023, a deal that is likely to be extended to cover the length of the team's Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
Despite having defeated Ireland twice in this campaign, he has plenty of admiration for the team and their fans.
Speaking after Friday's game, he admitted that he would be interested in managing Ireland in the future.
It is a big plus for us to have this situation now and be able to beat the Republic of Ireland twice because, I tell you, the support in here. I would like to be in charge of the team here...
I would love that. I would absolutely love that. I think it is a terrific place to come and play football. I was even surprised coming from the hotel, watching the people. I pay attention a lot. How many people have got the tracksuit? The black one. How many people have the green.
Listen, in Uruguay we are patriots, but I don’t think many people buy the national team tracksuit. I don’t remember, maybe I am wrong. The shirt? Yes. But I don’t think many people buy the tracksuit. They are there with the tracksuit, it is proper. It is proper.
Most potential Stephen Kenny replacements that have been mentioned have strong links to Ireland, but if the FAI feel that the ideal candidate is not among that group, they may look overseas for their next manager.
Considering the job he has done with Greece, Gus Poyet could well be part of that discussion.
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