The Republic of Ireland finished the year as joint 17th in the FIFA rankings which were published today.
Mick McCarthy's men are tied with Denmark in the December rankings which saw them rise one place from 18th last month.
World and European champions France have finished the year ranked No 1 ahead of Argentina and Brazil.
The final rankings for 2001 saw no changes in the top 10 where the French hold a narrow 10 points advantage over Argentina.
AFP
