Northern Ireland will call on Sammy McIlroy's World Cup experience after the former Manchester United midfielder was appointed as their new national team manager on a two-year contract. McIlroy, who won 88 caps for Northern Ireland had a superb playing career with his country, beating the hosts Spain at the 1982 World Cup and then captaining them in Mexico four years later. He also played 418 games for Manchester United and lifted the FA Cup with the Red Devils after beating Liverpool in 1977. He will step down as manager of Third Division side Macclesfield to take up his new post on a full-time basis.
The Belfast born 45-year-old succeeds Lawrie McMenemy whose contract expired at the end of November. Irish Football Association General Secretary David Bowen confirmed McIlroy as the unanimous choice to lead Northern Ireland in their bid to qualify for the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan. The IFA were keen to make an appointment as soon as possible to give the new manager time to prepare for Northern Ireland's coming list of games which starts with Luxembourg away at the end of February.
Meanwhile, Home Farm FC have formed an alliance with Premiership leaders Leeds United. Currently there are 9 ex-Home Farm players at Elland Road including Irish Internationals Gary Kelly, Alan Maybury and Stephen McPhail. Leeds will provide technical support to the Home Farm coaching team under the guidance of Liam Touhy and all Home Farm teams will wear the Leeds United crest on their jerseys.
