Carlo Cudicini has joined the Republic of Ireland U21 team as goalkeeping coach.
The former Chelsea, Tottenham and LA Galaxy gloveman has taken up the role with the Football Association of Ireland after completing his UEFA 'B' coaching license.
Cudicini replaces Alan O'Neill in the Ireland setup and the appointment of the Italian has been warmly welcomed by U21 boss Noel King.
"Carlo Cudicini is coming in to the do the goalkeepers initially. We'll see how it goes and work together to try and win the game obviously," said King.
"His experience will be a great help to us. It won't be just goalkeeping - we'll include him as we do with all our staff in the preparation. We'll value his views and hopefully that'll add strength to us.
"We're thankful to Alan O'Neill, who has been with us and the Association for a great number of years and has been a great servant. He has to move on due to work commitments, and we'll look forward to a successful time with Carlo."
