Steve Staunton Sacked

Republic of Ireland manager Steve Staunton has been sacked following his side's failure to qualify for Euro 2008.

It's been coming following a lack of official backing, but today the news was finally announced that the FAI will be relieving Staunton of his managerial duties.

A dissappointing 1-1 draw at home to Cyprus ended ROI's hopes of progressing to next summer's showpiece tournament, but it was earlier poor results which will have sealed the Irishman's fate.

His career as Ireland boss began well, with a 3-0 friendly victory over Sweden. However, the signs of progress were lacking as they lost to Chile 1-0, and then were thrashed by Holland 4-0.

Their qualifying campaign got off to a miserable start, losing away to Germany, before being dismantled 5-2 by Cyprus. They improved rapidly afterwards with some good results, but their challenge soon faded after losing to the Czech Republic in Prague.

The draw with Cyprus proved to be the last straw for Staunton, who have slumped from 15th to 32nd in the FIFA Rankings.

David O'Leary is favourite to take over, while Liam Brady has also expressed an interest, but who do you think should take the reigns of a sinking Irish ship? Answers on the back of a postcard (or in the comments box if you prefer).

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