'Good for the country' - Ireland manager Stephen Kenny backs bid to co-host Euro 2028

Stephen Kenny believes that it would be a good news story for the country should Ireland prove successful with their joint venture to co-host Euro 2028.

The Government is expected to formally back the bid, which would include both Irish associations, along with those of England, Scotland and Wales.

The deadline for the bid is Wednesday, and the Ireland manager thinks that it would be something for Irish football fans to look forward to over the coming years.

The manager did admit that, based on the current facilities available, the games that will be hosted in the Republic of Ireland would have to take place in Dublin, while he also believes that the prospect of the tournament coming to the country would not have to distract from what is currently being done in the improving of the game.

"I think it's good news overall," said Kenny, speaking at a press conference following training at the FAI headquarters.

"It’s positive to have the European Championships in Ireland, it’s a good news story, and I’m sure the Irish supporters will look forward to having games in the country. It’s a distance away but I’m sure they’ll look forward to it when it happens."

The manager said that he understands the point of view regarding the fear of finances being taken away from improving the infrastructure of the game in Ireland, but stressed his opinion that the two could co-exist.

"They are not sceptics, it’s a point of view, which I respect, I don’t necessarily think they are conflicting," said Kenny.

"I would say that the infrastructure in this country is nowhere near where it needs to be. It needs serious government investment, and the Taoiseach has acknowledged that and said publicly that he wants to investment in academies Ireland.

"We are way