Roy Keane scored nine goals in 67 appearances for the Republic

"A lot of it came down to the players and a lot of them certainly let the manager down with their performances," said the former Republic skipper.

"Sympathy is too strong a word but I do appreciate what a tough job he had."

Keane also fears for the future of the team, claiming there are not enough top young players coming through.

"Everyone appreciates what a hard job it is, especially for a young manager like Steve Staunton," said Keane.

"I think a manager is only as good as his players.

"We need to get some top players coming through but having watched the Under-21s a few weeks ago (in their 3-0 defeat to England) I wouldn't get my hopes up too high."

David O'Leary and Liam Brady have quickly emerged as early front-runners to replace Staunton but Keane, who once notoriously barracked Mick McCarthy over his perceived nationality, insists an Irish appointment is not essential.

Keane said: "It doesn't concern me one bit as long as the manager comes in and is successful.

"But there are some very good Irish managers out there looking for jobs, so why not?"