Steve Staunton has been appointed the new Republic of Ireland football manager.

Sir Bobby Robson will take up a consultant’s position alongside Staunton while Kevin MacDonald and Alan Kelly will comprise the rest of the management team.

Staunton said he was “delighted and proud” to be appointed.

“I know that the calibre of the team I have will bring a huge range of experience and talent to the challenges that lie ahead,” added Staunton.

Staunton is currently working as assistant to Walsall manager Paul Merson so the FAI has opted to also get 73-year-old Robson on board.

Robson said that he was “really looking forward to working with the new manager and his team”.

“Stephen’s record and reputation speak for themselves and I am delighted to help and advise Stephen in any way he sees fit”, Robson said.

“I am totally confident that the Irish international team has a really bright future.”

Football Association of Ireland chief executive John Delaney said that Staunton “has impressed people for many years”.

“He is highly respected, a natural motivator and I am confident he will make an excellent manager,” said Delaney.

The FAI official said Robson would bring “a magnificent wealth of experience to his role”.

“His knowledge, experience and advice will be a valuable asset to Stephen”, added Delaney.

Staunton is Ireland’s most capped player, having represented his country on 102 occasions.

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