Republic of Ireland squad greeted by fans at Dublin Airport

Colour, crowds and lots of cheering.

That was the scene that met the Republic of Ireland squad as they returned from their world cup odyssey.

Their flight with a layover in Dubai arrived in Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport, shortly after midday.

It was just before 1pm when members of the squad started coming through the arrivals door.

Eager crowds had been gathering for some time before that, trying to ensure the best vantage point for a glimpse of the players.

Almost all of the young girls spoken to, spoke of how proud they were of the squad and how they took inspiration from their displays.

Neither manager Vera Pauw or Katie McCabe would stop for interview, both aware of how the disagreement during Monday's match with Nigeria has drawn sharp focus on the Dutch woman's contract extension talks.

They appeared stalled, with the FAI saying it will conduct an internal review of the tournament, before making a decision.

Niamh Fahey did stop to talk, but she just gave the stock answer that it's a decision for the Association, not the players.

Now attention will turn to the official homecoming tomorrow evening, when the squad will be presented to the public in front of the GPO on O'Connell Street in Dublin at 6.30pm.