FAI investigating Ireland manager Stephen Kenny after showing ‘political’ video to players before England game

The Football Association of Ireland is looking into the incident which allegedly took place at Wembley before England’s 3-0 friendly win

Stephen Kenny addresses his players in the build-up to the Wembley friendly (PA)

Manager Stephen Kenny is being investigated by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) after showing a ‘political’ video to his players before their friendly against England at Wembley last week.

The video was shown on the day of the game, which England went on to win 3-0. The Independent understands Kenny has been asked to give his account of the incident after a senior FAI official expressed their concern to the board. 

Some Irish players were “shocked” by the content of the video, according to the Daily Mail, which first reported the news, although other sources told the paper the video was simply “pro-Irish”.

In a statement, the FAI said: “The Football Association of Ireland is aware of issues surrounding content shared with our senior men’s team ahead of the recent friendly against England at Wembley Stadium. The FAI is already looking into this matter internally as a matter of urgency to establish the facts. The FAI has no further comment to make at this time.”

Kenny took over from Mick McCarthy in April. Last month his Irish side lost on penalties to Slovakia to end hopes of qualifying for Euro 2020 next summer. 

This weekend get a £10 free bet with Betfair, when you bet £10 on a Same Game Multi on the Premier League. Terms: Min £10 Same Game Multi bet on any EPL match this Fri - Sun. Free bet valid for 72 hours, awarded at bet settlement. Excludes cashed out bets. T&Cs apply.