O'Neill praises fans after Ireland exit

Martin O'Neill and his assistant Roy Keane left their roles at the helm of the Republic of Ireland national team on Wednesday, after a torrid run of results which had many calling for his resignation.

Nevertheless, O'Neill has spoken of his decision to leave 'with a heavy heart' after fulfilling one of his 'lifetime ambitions' by taking charge of the country. 

In a statement relased by the League Managers Association, the 66 year old said: "'I have had the great honour of managing the Republic of Ireland national football team for the past five years and it is with a heavy heart that I leave this role. It was one of my lifetime ambitions to take charge of the Irish senior squad and I would like to thank the FAI board for giving me that opportunity."

He continued: "I will not forget the night in Lille when we beat Italy to secure the nation's best ever achievement in the Euros competition, the terrific night we beat the world champions Germany at home in Dublin, or James McClean's goal in that euphoric win against Wales in Cardiff that put us through to the play-offs for this year's World Cup."

O'Neill took time to denote special praise unto the Irish fans, saying:"The Irish fans have been a source of motivation to myself, the team and the whole backroom staff, embodying the passionate Irish spirit, and I thank them for their fervent support of the team. I am also very proud of the relationships I have built with the players, who have carried that very same spirit, imbued by the fans, on to the field of play."

The former Aston Villa boss was also keen to mention assistant Roy Keane in his parting words. He said of his right hand man: "A special thanks to Roy Keane my assistant, an inspirational figure in the world of football, Seamus McDonagh, Steve Guppy and Steve Walford for their brilliant contributions and to those backroom staff at the FAI that were of enormous help to me."

O'Neill concluded by thanking the players who he had the pleasure to have worked with during his reign. He added:" To the players, I reserve great praise and admiration for the phenomenal commitment they have shown whilst wearing the Irish shirt. Having had these great experiences in my spell as the Irish international manager, I am looking forward to my next adventure in football."