The Republic of Ireland manager Vera Pauw has welcomed today's UEFA announcement regarding the postponement of Euro 2021 for one year.
With the men's Euro 2020 tournament moved to next year, the women's tournament in England will now be played in 2022 from 6 July to 31 July.
Pauw admits that while it is good to see the football calendar become more clear, there are more important things to worry about presently.
"It is great to have clarity on when the UEFA Women's European Championships will be played so that we can plan accordingly," said Pauw.
"However, football has not been the priority for us of late with the world still battling against the coronavirus and our thoughts are with those we have lost, those who are fighting, and those who are aiding the fight.
"The reaction from so many people, around the world, to abide by Government and Health regulations has been inspiring.
"So too has been the positive vibes from people posting video messages, taking part in various activities like the FAI HomeSkills drills, and doing what they can to help others.
"It is important that we all stay strong and stay safe during this period."
Ireland have away games against Germany and Ukraine still to play along with a home game against group leaders Germany in qualification for the finals.
The nine group winners and the three best runners-up (not counting results against the sixth-placed team) qualify directly for the final tournament, while the remaining six runners-up advance to the play-offs.
The Girls in Green top Group I on 13 points albeit having played one more game than second placed Germany who have won all four of their matches.
Pauw is feeling positive about an Irish team qualifying for a first ever major women's tournament.
"As we look at the schedule ahead of us, there are still three group games to play and we remain in a good position to qualify for the European Championships," said Pauw.
"There is a lot of hard work ahead of us and it is fantastic that each of our players, who we remain in regular contact with, are working hard on individual fitness programs.
"We understand and accept UEFA's decision to move the European Championships to July 2022.
"So now our focus will be on planning ahead for our remaining qualifying games, arranging some friendly games, and then looking at the FIFA World Cup qualifiers once that schedule is set.
"To all of our supporters around the world, we look forward to playing our next game and representing Ireland as best as we can, but, right now, we urge you to stay at home, get some exercise every day, and do what you can to help others during this period."
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