Lawrenson warns against Kerr axe Rep of Ireland 0-0 Switzerland Kerr wants to stay as Irish boss

The FAI said it will "consider the implications" of Kerr's side's failure to reach the World Cup finals amid growing speculation he will be sacked.

The 0-0 draw against Switzerland ended the Republic's hopes of qualifying.

Kerr, who was appointed in January 2003, has indicated he will not resign after his contract ended on Wednesday.

The board of the FAI will now consider the implications of non-qualification and assess all the issues in respect of the international team achieving success in future European Championship and World Cup campaigns FAI statement

Kerr refused to be drawn on his own future following the disappointment in Dublin.

FAI chief executive officer John Delaney, meanwhile, praised Kerr and his staff for their efforts during the unsuccessful campaign.

"Football is the most popular team sport in Ireland and the interest in a World Cup year would have helped grow the game even further," Delaney said.

"Everyone associated with the quest for qualification - Brian Kerr, the technical and support team, the players and squad members and the staff in Merrion Square - have all applied tremendous effort in terms of commitment and dedication to the task.

"Unfortunately, despite the highest levels of planning and preparation by Brian and all the support team, our collective efforts have not been sufficient to take the squad to Germany next year."

Delaney believes the FAI will not suffer financially from failure to qualify as they had budgeted for such a scenario.

However, he added: "Nevertheless, the additional income from a major championship campaign would have been a very welcome addition to our investment in the game at home."