Irish referees have made a significant breakthrough with the appointment of Alan Kelly to the UEFA Cup fixture between FC Zurich and Hamburg.
This is the first time in over 25 years that an Irish referee has been appointed to officiate a match in such an advanced stage of the tournament.
Due to changes made to the UEFA referees categories in the 1990s, Irish appointments have until now ended at the group stage.
Kelly will be assisted by Damien McGrath (Mayo) and Barry McDonnell (Louth) for the 14 February fixture. Anthony Buttimer (Cork) will act as the fourth official.
Meanwhile, David McKeon has been appointed to referee the friendly international between Wales and Norway in Wrexham on 6 February. David will be assisted by Martin Moloney and David Wogan.
