Former Republic of Ireland international Andy Reid has been named the new head coach to the Irish under-18 side.

The ex-Tottenham Hotpsur, Charlton Athletic and Nottingham Forest midfielder has been working with the Under-18s, under Jim Crawford, since March 2018 and will now take control of the team with Jim linking up with Stephen Kenny's Under-21 set-up.

Reid was part of the Irish side who won the UEFA European Under-16 Championships in 1998.

Since hanging up his boots, Reid has completed his UEFA A & B Licence with the FAI and served as assistant first-team coach at Nottingham Forest for an interim period.

Speaking on his appointment, Reid said: "It is a real honour and privilege to have the opportunity to be appointed the Republic of Ireland Under-18 Head Coach.

"Having played underage football for my country, I understand the pathway these young players are taking. It will be a real pleasure to help them along the way.

"I have been involved in the set-up over the past 18 months with Jim Crawford and have seen first hand some of the amazing work he has done. I am keen to maintain that work whilst putting my own stamp on it. I am very grateful to Jim for all of his help so far and I can’t wait to get started."

FAI High Performance Director, Ruud Dokter said: "I am delighted to see Andy as the new Head Coach of the Under-18s. He brings a wealth of experience from his playing days and has gone through the pathway from Under-15 all the way up to the senior team.

"Andy is currently participating on our Pro Licence course and managing the Under-18's is a great opportunity for him to develop further as a manager/coach. I am sure the players will benefit from his passion and great knowledge of the game."

Online Editors