Republic of Ireland manager Steve Staunton has been slated by the Irish media this morning. This follows a pathetic performance by the national side against Holland last night. However Steve Staunton admitted his side have plenty of work to do after witnessing the heaviest home defeat in 40 years at Lansdowne Road on Wednesday night.

Bereft of class players such as Shay Given, Damien Duff and Robbie Keane, Ireland were outclassed by a Dutch side who could well have managed more than the four goals they managed.

Not since West Germany left Dalymount Park with a 4-0 win in 1966 has an Irish side suffered such a heavy defeat on home soil, and Staunton admitted it was very disheartening.

But he still felt there were positives in the shape of the performances of younger players such as Alan O'Brien, Aiden McGeady and Kevin Doyle after half-time.

He said: "It was very disappointing for the supporters. We had a great crowd in here tonight but the Dutch were different class, they gave us a lesson. 

In stark contrast the Irish u21 side defeated Greece 2-0 last night with star players Willo flood and Stephen Ward of Bohemian FC most impressive.