Damien Duff will return to Irish football as a member of new Ireland manager Stephen Kenny's backroom staff, the FAI have confirmed.

Duff will initially share the role with his current position of first team coach at Celtic although the Dubliner's long term future with the Scottish champions is unclear - it's understood that he was already contemplating a return home before the Irish opportunity emerged.

Keith Andrews will move up from the U21 side as Kenny's assistant with Jim Crawford staying behind to become the new boss at that age group.

John O'Shea, currently on the coaching staff at Reading, will join the U21 set-up as Crawford's assistant.

Alan Kelly will be remaining in the senior set-up as goalkeeping coach following his return to the fold under Mick McCarthy.

But Robbie Keane will not be a part of Kenny's staff even though he was handed a four year deal by former CEO John Delaney.

"The calibre of Stephen Kenny’s backroom team is top class and these are great additions to our senior team coaching staff," said FAI Interim CEO Gary Owens as he confirmed the appointments.

"Keith and Damien served Ireland so well as players and their experience will be such an addition to our senior squad’s support team.

"Keith and Stephen have worked brilliantly together with the Under-21 squad and Damien, currently finishing his UEFA Pro Licence with the FAI’s Coach Education department, has impressed everyone with his coaching skills and his switch from world class player to coach.

"Alan knows international football inside and was part of the squad at two World Cup finals. He is highly regarded as a coach with Premier League side Everton and has huge experience with Ireland.

"Together, Keith, Damien and Alan have so much to offer Stephen and his players as we look forward to the UEFA EURO 2020 Play-Offs, the Nations League and the World Cup qualifiers."

Online Editors