Steve Staunton's position as Republic of Ireland manager will not, the FAI insist, come under threat should the team lose to the Czech Republic tomorrow.

Staunton has been the subject of scathing criticism following the defeat in Cyprus but the association's president, David Blood, is steadfast in his view that the manager is staying in charge. "Regarding speculation in relation to our international manager and chief executive (John Delaney), I just want to allay fears that their positions are under threat," Blood said last night.

"On the contrary, they are consolidating their positions with us. Obviously we are disappointed with the last result, but it is just one result among more that will hopefully be positive."

Brian Kerr lost two competitive games during his, albeit longer, stint in charge and was cut loose as a result. Just two games into the European qualifying campaign and Staunton is rocking on a similar boat. What's good for one is good for another, right?

"You can't make that comparison," Blood said. "Why would we look at it at this stage? We've asked him in on a long-term basis to see if he would be prepared to take the team on and qualify us for a World Cup. It's a rebuild situation. We are certainly not considering any change of our tactics at this particular time. Stan has done a tremendous job for us over many years . . . and has a back-up team that are highly supportive and skilled.

"It has been slightly unfortunate with the injuries and Bobby Robson not being available to him . . . but I feel we have the stamina to last this particular test."

Blood denied the national team were on a "downward trend". "Injuries have not been our best friend," he said. "They are unfortunate but as with all things in life we don't have a crystal ball to see what's going to happen tomorrow or the day after."

So, if Staunton's men take a hammering tomorrow night will the FAI reconsider his position?

"No. Positively no," Blood said. "We have given Stephen an opportunity to come in and he has taken our situation forward to the degree we now have a highly professional backroom staff. They have to be given the time and the opportunity."