0:45 Former Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy says the decision for him to leave his role was brought forward due to extraordinary circumstances Former Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy says the decision for him to leave his role was brought forward due to extraordinary circumstancesStephen Kenny has replaced Mick McCarthy as Republic of Ireland manager with immediate effect. McCarthy's contract was due to run until July 31, after the Euro 2020 finals were originally due to finish, with Kenny set to step up from his role with the U21s on August 1. Stephen Kenny steps up from his role with the U21sSpeaking on FAI TV, McCarthy said: "It's disappointing I can't finish it off. "On behalf of the FAI, I wish to express our gratitude to Mick for his service and commitment to our national team throughout his career and particularly in his second spell as Ireland manager. "Stephen will now begin his planning for the play-off against Slovakia and everyone at the FAI wishes him well in our bid to qualify for Euro 2020.

Source: Sky sports April 04, 2020 15:58 UTC