From left, FAI President Gerry McAnaney, FAI Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Hill and Chairperson Roy Barrett have begun to look at Ireland's full-time academy system, but question-marks remain over funding. It is built around six pillars; driving grassroots, creating pathways for all, developing the full potential of the women’s game and setting targets under the League of Ireland, international and facilities headings. The amount of work which needs to be done on the academy end of things makes it more realistic that 2022-2025 is a window for agreeing the best strategy as opposed to enacting it. The strategic plan targets qualification for at least every second major tournament for men and women’s teams. Barrett conceded recent scenes at Wembley around the Euros finale weren’t ideal, but said nothing had changed with the 2030 bid.

Source: Irish Independent July 26, 2021 01:30 UTC