Republic of Ireland interim manager Eileen Gleeson paid tribute to "the ultimate professional" Stephen Kenny after her fellow Dubliner's reign as men's boss ended on Wednesday evening.The curtain came down on Kenny's three-and-half-year reign in the wake of another disappointing qualification campaign.And Gleeson, who named her squad today for the upcoming Nations League double-header, took the opportunity to give Kenny his dues."I think Stephen is the ultimate professional, he is super passionate about Ireland," she said."I'm sad to see Stephen go.
He did a lot for Irish football and I'm sure he'll continue to do so. For me it's a sad day. I’ve the utmost respect for Stephen.
I think he’s wholly dedicated to Ireland and you can’t ask for much more."Ireland face Hungary in Tallaght tomorrow week and then travel to Belfast to take on Northern Ireland at Windsor Park the following Tuesday.
They've already won the group to secure promotion to League A, with Gleeson's desire to blood more fresh faces evident in the inclusion of Peamount United's Ellen Dolan in the squad.