New Republic of Ireland coach Alan Mahon looking ahead after turbulent Ireland transition

New Republic of Ireland coach Alan Mahon doesn't believe there will be issues in the transition to the Carla Ward era following the fallout from departure of Eileen Gleeson and Colin Healy last year.

Mahon is part of the new staff under Ward, which also includes Amber Whitley and Emma Byrne, as Ireland prepare to face Turkey in the UEFA Nations League on Friday.

Healy has raised a complaint with how the FAI dealt with his departure, including over transparency and the decision-making process.

That has led to some kickback from players, including experienced Denise O’Sullivan describing the handling of it as "disrespectful" and that it left a "bad taste in her mouth."

Aoife Mannion also raised her "surprise" at the decision to change manager, despite the failure to qualify for Euro 2025.

Mahon was asked if there was a need to convince the players the new management are right for job, given the unhappiness over how the exits were handled.

He said: "I think when you're a player, you're playing for your country. I think all players will put in 100%.

"I think that it is down to us on the coaching side of stuff to make sure everything is right and they get all the information that's needed for them. I think when you're playing international football, you just focus on being the best version of yourself as a player, which they all do.

"The squad itself is a strong squad so it's down to us and obviously with Carla's tactical awareness and some of the stuff I'll do technically, that we just try to enhance what has already been built."

Mahon revealed he was contacted by the new Ireland boss before her appointment as she planned her backroom team if successful, with circumstances falling right for the former Irish international to