The Republic of Ireland won the competition, the first time that country won an international football tournament.[1] It was notable as the beginning of the success that came under Jack Charlton's management; it was here that he trialled his famous tactics of pressuring opposition defenders in the hope of forcing mistakes.[2][3]David O'Leary refused to play, instead going on a family holiday, which led to his being dropped from the international team for a time, Mick McCarthy taking his place at centre half.[4][5]Ray Houghton, John Aldridge and Pat Bonner also established themselves in the Irish team after playing in Iceland.[6] It featured the only international appearances by Mick Kennedy.[7]
