Soccer-Coach Kenny doesn't expect to be offered new contract by Ireland after poor Euro campaign

Soccer Football - International Friendly - Republic of Ireland v New Zealand - Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland - November 21, 2023 Republic of Ireland coach Stephen Kenny acknowledges fans after the match REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne

(Reuters) - Ireland ended their year on a demoralising note as they were held to a 1-1 draw at home by New Zealand, with manager Stephen Kenny saying he is not very optimistic about being offered a new contract by the country's soccer association (FAI).

Ireland were eliminated from Euro 2024 qualifying after managing to score six points from eight matches, with the two wins coming against lowly-placed Gibraltar. They ended their qualification campaign with a 1-0 defeat away to the Netherlands on Sunday.