Bobby Robson is convinced the Republic of Ireland will enjoy a bright future thanks to a number of emerging youngsters.
Steve Staunton's first qualifying campaign in charge may not have yielded a place in next summer's Euro 2008 finals, but he has blooded many new players.
Kevin Doyle, Paul McShane, Joey O'Brien, Shane Long, Andy Keogh, Daryl Murphy and Darren Potter are all starting to make a name for themselves on the international scene.
That should bode well for the 2010 World Cup qualifying programme, providing the Republic can finish third in their current group to ensure a respectable draw for the tournament in South Africa.
'We've youngsters in the side, and they need two more years - not only international experience but the experience of playing in a higher league,' said Republic consultant Robson.
'We've players like Doyle, Long, McShane, Keogh, O'Brien, and Kelly - so there is a group of young players out there who need time.'
The critics of Staunton's regime are comparing Ireland to Scotland - a team thought to be in decline before Walter Smith and Alex McLeish steered them to the brink of reaching the finals.
'Maybe they are getting the maximum from their players, with good team morale and spirit, something we are trying to develop,' added Robson.
'We've achieved that to some degree. If you just look at our spirit on Saturday against Germany (in a goalless draw) our morale, determination and fitness levels were very good.
'Now we have to be consistent with those particular qualities. For some players it may take time, but I'm sure we'll get there.'
Ireland first have to finish the current qualifying campaign, with Cyprus the visitors to Croke Park tomorrow, followed by a trip to Cardiff next month to face Wales.
The clash with the Cypriots is one in which Ireland can exorcise a few demons following the humiliating 5-2 defeat in Nicosia a year ago.
Vice-captain Shay Given was injured that night and he is intent on a better outcome this time.
'To lose in Cyprus was a terrible result, so we hope we can put the record straight tomorrow and get three points and put that to bed,' said the Newcastle goalkeeper.
'It was frustrating for any fan watching that night. Lessons were learned. They were good at going forward - they've some decent attacking players, so we need to be on our guard.
'They scored three against Wales (on Saturday). But they do have faults, so we have to get at them and push them back and get a good victory.'
John O'Shea and Potter both took part in a full training session yesterday, and providing there is no reaction to their leg and groin injuries they should figure against the Cypriots.
