League of Ireland club St Patrick’s Athletic have endorsed Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny for the role of Republic of Ireland manager.
The FAI have begun the process of searching for a new manager after Martin O'Neill left the role earlier this week. Two main contenders have emerged with Mick McCarthy and Kenny reportedly leading the way.
Kenny's exemplary record in Irish football has led to St Patrick's Athletic calling for his appointment citing his "experience, knowledge, commitment and intellect." The 47-year-old started his managerial career with the Dublin side, taking charge of their U21s in 1997.
Club Statement: Supporting Stephen Kenny for @FAIreland Manager’s job 🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/Num4SBgaj9
— St Patrick's Athletic FC (@stpatsfc) November 23, 2018
The statement also declares that Kenny's appointment would be a positive move for the grassroots and domestic game.
"The board of St Patrick’s Athletic FC, as stakeholders in Irish domestic football, have convened and endorse and recommend Stephen Kenny for the vacant position as manager of the national team.
We believe Stephen Kenny is the best candidate and that he has proven he has the experience, knowledge, commitment and intellect to change the current direction of the Irish senior team.
Stephen’s appointment would undeniably be a boost for both the grassroots and domestic leagues.
All involved would know that the country’s game would be in the hands of a man who knows and believes that the future of the game is in the nurturing and proper and professional development of the game in schools, communities, academies and clubs countrywide.
"We hope that all stakeholders of the domestic game that agree, express their view in the public forum."
