Mick McCarthy has paid tribute to the “incredible” turnout of over 100,000 supporters at the Phoenix Park in Dublin for the homecoming concert of Ireland's World Cup Squad.
The Republic of Ireland manager said: “We were told to expect a reception, but, honestly, we never expected anything like this”.
“It makes you feel very humble, and also proud to be Irish,” he added.
The crowd also enjoyed performances from Westlife, Six, Bellefire, Aprés Match, Mundy, Kila and Picturehouse.
Mick McCarthy and the players touched down in Dublin Airport just before 5pm after a twelve-hour flight from Seoul.
The team's appearance at the homecoming party followed a reception in Áras an Uachtaráin, where President Mary McAleese said that the Irish team had given people back home a “fantastic set of memories which would never be forgotten”.
The President said everybody's heart was broken when the squad were knocked out of the World Cup but she praised the "sheer dignity" with which the team accepted Sunday's result.
At a 20 minute ceremony, members of the team were greeted individually by the President and by the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern. They were also welcomed by the North's Deputy First Minister, Mark Durkan.
It was an informal occasion and the team members were treated to champagne before the President made a presentation of Waterford Crystal to manager Mick McCarthy.
Mrs McAleese praised the courage and commitment of the Irish side. She said that they had lifted the hearts of people and were fantastic ambassadors for the country.
Mick McCarthy said the team appreciated the homecoming and said he was glad to raise a toast to his squad and staff in the President’s home.
