The cash-strapped FAI are facing a 10-month gap without a money-spinning match at the Aviva Stadium. Whether or not Mick McCarthy guides Ireland through the pair of play-offs in March, the team’s summer friendlies will have to be staged at alternative venues. The last match staged at Lansdowne was the concluding Euro qualifier against Denmark in November, when a draw plunged Ireland into the play-offs. By that stage, or earlier, depending on Euro qualification, U21 boss Stephen Kenny will have taken charge. Ireland are due to discover their Nations League opposition on March 3 when the draw is made in Amsterdam.

Source: Irish Examiner January 17, 2020 22:52 UTC