Sykes feels squad 'maybe not going to see' Kenny again

Republic Of Ireland winger Mark Sykes reckons the international side faces "an uncertain time" as the squad accept they are "maybe not going to see [manager Stephen Kenny] again" after Tuesday night's humdrum draw at home to New Zealand.

Along with Mikey Johnston, the Bristol City wideman was the pick of Ireland's attacking players as the Kenny era drew to a likely conclusion with an underwhelming performance at Lansdowne Road.

The game also marked the 103rd and final cap of James McClean's career. The Derryman received a massive reception from the 26,000 crowd when he was replaced by Ryan Manning in the 68th minute.

"We wanted to send James off with a nice win but it wasn't to be in the end," Sykes told RTÉ Sport's Tony O'Donoghue after the game.

"The lads are gutted for him but that’s football and we just have to brush ourselves down and be ready to go again in March.

GOAL! Mark Sykes nicks the ball off Pijnaker before setting up Adam Idah to slot home.