Mick McCarthy has stepped down as Republic of Ireland soccer manager.
McCarthy's contract was not due to expire until February 2004. He is now expected to leave the position immediately and the search for a replacement is expected to start straight away.
McCarthy had been under pressure since the beginning of the European Championship Qualifier campaign. Ireland has lost both of its games so far.
Ireland's next match is a friendly away to Greece later in the month. Under 21s manager, Don Givens, is expected to take over in a caretaker capacity.
Of others who have been named in early speculation about a possible successor, David O'Leary has ruled out accepted the position now, though he would like to manege Ireland in the future.
The Taoiseach has said he is sorry to see Mick McCarthy go as manager of the Irish team.
Mr Ahern said he had done a lot for soccer in Ireland and added that he hoped Mr McCarthy would get a job as the manager of a team in the English Premiership.
