Republic of Ireland: FAI disputes Colin Healy’s account of exit from women’s team role
Speaking at a press conference to introduce new Republic of Ireland coach Cara Ward on Thursday, Canham insisted Healy had not been given any guarantee of a contract extension.
Canham explained that the decision not to retain his and Gleeson’s services was based on a review carried out following Wales’ play-off defeat.
“The decision not to renew Colin’s contract was purely a football decision,” Canham said.
“We have not given Colin any guarantee or full assurance that his contract will be renewed. That was always subject to the outcome of the review and the outcome of the game against Wales.”
Canham added that the FAI had explained to Healy that he would be free to decide whether to wait for the No. 2 job to be considered as the next Republic manager or take up the role of head coach of Cobh Ramblers.
FAI chief executive David Courell agreed with Healy’s decision to turn down Cobh’s opportunity.
“As for my conversations with Colin, it’s clear that Colin’s contract is not going to be renewed, it’s over, that couldn’t be clearer,” Courell said at a media event on Thursday.
“We are always open to anyone being appointed as head coach, with Colin as number two, but it is always most important for a new coach to have his own choice and the opportunity to appoint his own number two of.
“I indicated that I understood that if he had another opportunity, if he wanted to take that opportunity, it would be a risk for him.”
