The Republic of Ireland have appointed Brian Kerr as their new manager.
The 49-year-old Dubliner replaces Mick McCarthy who resigned last year after The Republic’s disappointing start to their EURO 2004 campaign.
Kerr, previously coach of the Republic’s youth team – leading them to a remarkable double triump in 1998 at under-16 and under-18 levels – will take charge of the Republic for their friendly against Scotland at Hampden Park on 12 February.
It is widely expected that Glenn Hoddle’s assistant at Tottenham, Chris Hughton will be Kerr’s part-time assistant.
To land the post, Kerr beat off challenges from several high-profile unemployed managers including Bryan Robson, Peter Reid and former Republic of Ireland striker John Aldridge.