Republic of Ireland: Heimir Hallgrímsson appointment ends search for new manager

Former Iceland boss Heimir Hallgrímsson has been appointed the new Republic of Ireland manager.

The 57-year-old’s announcement ends an eight-month search for a permanent successor to Stephen Kenny.

Hallgrímsson was joint head coach of his native Iceland alongside Lars Lagerback when they stunned England to reach the quarter-finals at Euro 2016.

He was then in sole control when Iceland reached the 2018 World Cup finals and achieved their highest ever Fifa World ranking of 18th during his time in charge.

Football Association of Ireland director of football Marc Canham said the governing body had earlier this year identified Hallgrímsson – who also coached Jamaica – as “our number one candidate”.

“Not only does Heimir have significant experience at international level with two different countries, but crucially he also has a track record of qualifying for major international tournaments and taking teams up the Fifa world rankings,” he added.

More to follow.