I always thought that Brian Kerr was doing well but just missed out on making it through a really tough group. Stan was a complete joke, never even looked capable of managing a team, a bit like McClaren for England, had the backing of everyone but when results went wrong, hop on his back and "force" the guy out.
Even look at them, seperated at birth! I'm telling you!
As for Irelands push for World Cup 2010, I really feel like there is a great chance for us to make it to South Africa, especially with a new top manager. Look t the group we're in;
Italy
Bulgaria
Republic of Ireland
Cyprus
Georgia
Montenegro
Italy: Ok, this will more than likely be a loss in Italy but at Croker......you never know, a draw perhaps?
Bulgaria: Seeded above us and a tough test away surely, but we should take them at home.
Cyprus: Disasters against them last time out so we'll do the job this time and do it right.
Georgia: Again, tough away but I see 6 points here.
Montenegro: We simply have to take full advantage of the waekest team in the group, 6 points, handy, IMO
So things are most definatly on the up for Irish football!
C'MON IRELAND!