Defiant Staunton vows to stay on

Staunton and his players were booed after Wednesday's game

Steve Staunton is determined to remain as Republic of Ireland boss despite the 1-1 draw with Cyprus putting an end to hopes of making the Euro 2008 finals.

"I'll get on with the job and see it through - I know what I've come here to do," he said.

However, Staunton criticised his team's display at Croke Park and questioned the attitude of the players.

He added: "It wasn't good enough and we have to show more desire. We've been very lucky to get out of jail."

Interview: Rep of Ireland manager Steve Staunton

There were boos from some Republic fans after the game and Staunton had no complaints.

"It was a very poor performance and very disappointing.

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"I can understand from the fans' point of view that it's not good enough. They are within their rights (to boo).

"It's also not good enough from the players or the management team. I can't pass the ball for them.

"Once the players go over the white line they have to stand up and be counted - they did that on Saturday but it didn't happen in this game.

"In the first half we never got to grips with it and the second half was a little bit better but a long way off the standard required."

Staunton is now looking forward to the qualifying campaign for the World Cup finals in 2010.

"I've seen the young players coming through and we have to try to get a squad for the World Cup," he said.

"If we do that we can get a settled team and then get players pushing other players for places."