Mick McCarthy appointed Republic of Ireland manager as FAI outlines Stephen Kenny succession plan

The 59-year-old McCarthy will embark on his second stint in charge of Ireland, after his first came to an end following the 2002 World Cup, and will be expected to earn qualification for Euro 2020

Mick McCarthy is back in the Republic of Ireland hot-seat (PA)

Mick McCarthy will succeed Martin O’Neill as the Republic of Ireland manager after signing a two-year contract with the FAI, as the organisation outlined a long-term plan which will see the highly rated Stephen Kenny take over in 2020.

The 59-year-old McCarthy will embark on his second stint in charge of Ireland, after his first came to an end following the 2002 World Cup, and will be expected to earn qualification for the 2020 European Championships.

The FAI also confirmed the appointment of Kenny, who has enjoyed a successful six-year spell in charge of the League of Ireland Premier Division champions Dundalk, as Ireland’s under-21 manager, with a plan to succeed McCarthy in two years following Euro 2020.

McCarthy said: “I’m honoured and excited to be back with the Republic of Ireland. I am delighted that the FAI Board and CEO have given me this opportunity to lead the team to Euro 2020.”

The FAI chief executive John Delaney said McCarthy was the obvious candidate to replace O’Neill, who left the role this week after relegation in the Nations League.

Delaney said: “This is a very exciting time for Irish football as we are able to welcome back a proven manager at international level in Mick McCarthy and also look to the future with Stephen Kenny.

Stephen Kenny will take over in 2020 (Getty Images)

“Mick was a great player for Ireland and then had a terrific impact as manager by guiding the team to the round of 16 in the 2002 World Cup following a memorable draw with eventual finalists Germany.

“There is no doubt that he knows international football and has the appetite to lead the team forward again.”