Kerr returns to Ireland set-up as O’Shea names coaches

Brian Kerr has returned to the Republic of Ireland national team set-up having been named as a technical advisor for the upcoming international fixtures with Switzerland and Belgium.

The former Ireland manager, who was previously in charge for 33 matches between 2003 to 2005, will work with interim head coach John O’Shea‘s coaching team throughout the March window.

“Brian brings with him a wealth of experience we’ll be able tap into during the camp and his passion for Irish football and the Ireland national team is well known and will be a welcome addition to the group,” said O’Shea.

The former Manchester United player, who will be assisted by Paddy McCarthy, has also confirmed the rest of his coaching and performance team for the March games.

Former Ireland midfielder Glenn Whelan, who won 91 caps for his country, will also join the team as an assistant coach, while current Ipswich Town and Ireland Under-21s goalkeeping coach Rene Gilmartin will also support the senior team.

Gilmartin is joined by analyst Martin Doyle will also step up from the Under-21s set-up to support the team.

Athletic performance coach Damien Doyle and analyst Stephen Rice will continue to support the squad for the two friendlies.

“We’re delighted to confirm the coaching and support performance team for the March internationals,” said O’Shea.

“Glenn was an unbelievable servant for his country during his distinguished playing career and we’ll be delighted to welcome him back into the international fold as a coach, having recently spent time with the Ireland U16s during the Victory Shield.

“Rene Gilmartin steps up from the Ireland U21s set-up where he has worked sin ce 2019 and so crucially, already has a great relationship with our current goalkeeper group.”

Follow the RTÉ Sport WhatsApp channel for the best news, interviews, analysis and features, as well as details of our sports coverage across all RTÉ platforms.

Watch Derry City v St Patrick’s Athletic in the League of Ireland on Friday from 7.35pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player, follow a live blog on rte.ie/sport and the RTÉ News app