World Cup qualifying photos Republic of Ireland 0-1 France

"But we still have that opportunity to qualify with two games left, we need to win those and see where we are in the table," said the Republic manager.

Kerr said he couldn't fault his players for their efforts.

"But we weren't quite good enough. Henry scored a smashing goal but his goal was really only a half-chance."

Kerr added that his side had found it difficult to win the physical battle against the French.

"We had a few half-chances but no clear chances in the second half.

"They are a good side but until their goal, it was hard to see a goal coming from either team. The goal was out of nothing really."

Kerr will be without the suspended Roy Keane, Stephen Carr and Clinton Morrison for the must-win game in Cyprus on 8 October after the trio were booked in Wednesday's game.

"Some of the bookings were rather harsh and our players were really showing commitment.

Ireland did not deserve to lose Thierry Henry

"Roy (Keane) was tremendous and we'll miss him in the next match."

Goalscorer Henry said he had struggled to make an impression in the game until his wonder goal midway through the second half.

"I didn't get a look in tonight and so I thought I should try something a bit different," he added.

"It is good we got three points but lets not get carried away.

"The result is good but I don't think we won prettily. Ireland did not deserve to lose."

Henry insisted that France still have much work to do to ensure qualification with an away game against Switzerland and a home contest with Cyprus still to come in the group.

"Nothing is done yet. It is a strange group and I think it is the first time one of the top teams has beaten the other.

"I had to battle as it is difficult up front on your own. We shouldn't be over the moon as there is still a long way to go."