Finnan backs Stan to lead Ireland to WC 2010
Last updated : 12 October 2007 By Tony Tighe
Steve Staunton may have had a bumpy ride so far during his tenure as Ireland "gaffer", but rumours are circulating that Steve Finnan may have taken a bump to his head, following his claims that Stan is the man to lead Ireland to the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa.
During the Louth man's 21 months in charge, Ireland have needed an injury-time winner from the triple-granny killer to see off the butchers, bakers and candlestick makers of San Marino, blown what would have been a crucial victory in Bratislava thanks to crazy substitutions, and given Cyprus the greatest night in their football history. Yet the Liverpool right-back come Ireland left-back believes it is to the benefit of all if Staunton remains at the helm."For continuity, it's important he remains in charge," said Finnan, "That's one of the key factors - to give someone time to get things right."
Words of wisdom from our Steve. Maybe he has decided to make use of the Anfield rotation system by spouting drivel at every given opportunity. Continuity of what? 5-2 drubbings at the hands of minnows? Playing key players out of position? Playing John O'Shea full stop? For what has Staunton actually achieved since taking the helm that makes Finnan feel we should persist with him?
"It's been a difficult job for him considering where we were when we took over as we had not qualified for the previous two major tournaments."
It may have been difficult, but even Stan has surpassed himself. When Drogheda's favourite son replaced Brian Kerr in January 2005, Ireland were ranked at 12th in the Fifa World Rankings. Ireland currently sit 32nd - below Guinea - having been as low as 51st in March this year. For the first time this century, Northern Ireland even managed to overtake their Southern rivals. However, the crazy appointment of Nigel Worthington has put paid to any chances of that happening again. Thank God for small mercies.
"There was a period of change and I feel he has done well," continued Finnan. "Even if there have been one or two games where we haven't performed as well as we could do."
Maybe arithmetic isn't Steve's strong point, because bar Stan's debut game against Sweden, Ireland haven't been capable of playing well for 90 minutes. Germany away, Cyprus away, San Marino away, Wales home, Slovakia away, Czech Republic away, Chile at home, Holland at home. And should Stan remain at the helm for the World Cup qualifiers the list is likely to keep growing.
As for Mr Finnan? Don't give up the day job son.
