Mick McCarthy has taken charge of his last game as Ireland manager, and it has left him with a 'bittersweet' feeling.
UEFA's decision to move the Euros to 2021 was always going to leave the FAI in an awkward position, with Stephen Kenny due to replace McCarthy on August 1st. They ultimately decided to stick to that agreement, meaning the former Dundalk boss will lead Ireland to that tournament should we qualify.
Mick McCarthy would have loved to opportunity to continue in the role, but he understands the decision. Speaking to the FAI's YouTube page, he revealed that it was disappointing that he couldn't finish the job but is happy for Kenny to get his chance:
I said on December 1st 2018, when I took the job, that I'd be leaving on July 31st come what may. Those discussions were based on us qualifying and maybe doing really well in the Euros, but I said I was leaving and that's still the case, albeit it's been brought forward because of what's happening worldwide...
I fully understand it. Åge Hareide is the same, the Denmark coach, he started the same competition and he's leaving now because his successor was already picked to take over. Mine was the same.
It's disappointing that I can't finish it off, I think we had a really good campaign. We were almost there in November when we played Denmark, sadly we didn't. The play-offs have been pushed back and I fully understand it.
Stephen [Kenny] has been contracted to take over in August and good luck to him. He will now get the chance to qualify.
Mick would go on to thank the supporters and his staff for backing him during his second stint in charge, saying he felt very welcomed upon his return.
He said that he loved every minute of it and will be looking to get back into football with another job as soon as possible:
It's been brilliant, I've loved being back. It's been an absolute pleasure and an honour to be doing the job again.
I think I'm leaving Stephen with a healthy balance...
What this does as well is that it gives everybody clarity. The phone had been going asking what was going to happen. To be fair the decision has been taken quickly, and I support the decision because it's only right and fair that Stephen gets his chance.
It's kind of bittersweet, but I fully support it. I'm absolutely staying in football, I have no intention of leaving. What it does do with this clarity is mean I'm back on the market.
I can look for a job with impunity.
