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Gavin Quinn

Stephen Kenny handed Republic of Ireland contract extension

Stephen Kenny will lead Ireland in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign after the FAI announced an extension to his contract on Wednesday evening.

The Boys in Green boss, as well as his coaching staff, will remain in charge beyond their upcoming Nations League campaign as Ireland look to book their tickets to Germany in just over two years' time.

A statement said: "The Football Association of Ireland is delighted to announce an extension to Stephen Kenny’s contract as Ireland manager to the 2024 UEFA European Championship campaign.

Read more: Republic of Ireland resigned to losing Charlie McCann to Northern Ireland

"On the instruction of the Board of the FAI, the agreement was successfully negotiated by FAI Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Hill after extensive and productive talks with Stephen Kenny.

"The FAI can also confirm that new contracts have been agreed for Assistant Manager Keith Andrews and Stephen’s coaching team of Dean Kiely, Stephen Rice and Damien Doyle. An assistant coach will be appointed by Stephen Kenny in due course."

Kenny said: "“I consider it the ultimate honour to manage my country and I am delighted to extend my contract. The players are incredibly proud to play for Ireland and in recent performances we have witnessed a powerful connection between the team and the Irish supporters.

"The attitude of the players has been exceptional, we have seen the team grow and develop and I, together with Keith Andrews and all of the staff, look forward to seeing the team fulfil its potential.

"With the recent return of supporters to stadiums, I want to acknowledge the importance of the passionate Irish fans both home and away. Finally, I want to express my appreciation to Jonathan and the Board of the FAI for sharing our belief in the International Squad.”

Boys in Green fans have rowed in behind Stephen Kenny’s team by snapping up a record number of season tickets, reports the Irish Mirror.

The FAI announced last night that sales have almost topped 17,000 ahead of the first international game of the year.

And according to the association, the 2018 record of 16,500 season tickets was eclipsed yesterday afternoon.

Republic fans will have six home matches this season with Belgium and Lithuania first up later this month.

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