Former Republic of Ireland striker Niall Quinn has been appointed interim deputy chief executive of the Football Association of Ireland.

Quinn, who ruled himself out of the role of chief executive, had said he would be open to a role in helping out the organisation after his associate Roy Barrett was appointed as Independent Chairman of the FAI Board.

Last year Barrett was part of Quinn's visionary group that came together to look at future structures for the League of Ireland.

Also a member of that Visionary Group was Gary Owens, who earlier this week was named the new interim chief executive of the FAI.

NEWS | Niall Quinn appointed as FAI Interim Deputy CEO pic.twitter.com/yMENVfRCTR — FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) January 23, 2020

A statement released by the FAI read: "In addressing the current challenges facing the FAI, the executive team want to ensure that the organisation's core objective of the promotion and development of the game of football in Ireland is prioritised.

"Niall’s role with the team will focus on leading a future League of Ireland strategy, the overall development of the game in Ireland, including supporting grassroots and community initiatives together with our player pathway programmes.

"Niall will also focus on helping restoring and building key relationships and trust with key peer groups and the media."

Owens added: "We are really pleased that someone of Niall’s calibre is joining the team.

"Football is such an important game in this country at every level.

"Niall not only brings great insight and experience to developing the game but is passionate about football in Ireland – his energy and commitment is a great fit for the FAI as we begin reform of the organisation and look to create a better future for football in Ireland."

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Shane Ross also welcomed the appointment.

"Niall has a long association with Irish football and over the past year he has demonstrated very clearly his strong desire to see a vibrant body emerge for the good the Irish game," he said.

"His passion for fair play, his independence and his integrity are widely known and admired."