Ireland have begun their qualifying campaign for the 2020 European Championships in a positive manner as they top the group with ten points out of a possible 12.
While the performances have not been of the highest order, Republic of Ireland legend Ray Houghton says the results are more important than the style of play at this moment in time.
“10 points from the first four games. We were expecting nine but the point in Denmark is huge.
As far as I’m concerned, get the job done, go and enjoy your summer and come back refreshed for next season.”
Mick McCarthy’s era was ushered in with wins against Georgia and Gibraltor in the opening games of qualifying for the 2020 Euros.
McCarthy’s appointment was met with optimism as Martin O’Neill’s tenure ended in less than ideal circumstances.
Yet, Houghton feels that the end of the reign put a dampener on his tenure as a whole as he brought Ireland to the Euros in 2016 and the playoffs for the world cup last year.
“It wasn’t as bad as people think. Yeah, the football at times wasn’t what you wanted to see… Don’t forget Martin got us to Euro’s in 2016 and got us to a play-off for the 2018 World Cup.”
As for what lies ahead under McCarthy, Houghton is positive that the National side can continue in the same vein and qualify for the 2020 Euros which they will be hosting in some capacity.
“After four games we are in a very decent position so hopefully we can go on and qualify.”
Watch the interview in full with Houghton on our Facebook page below!
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