Former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper David Forde has joined Stephen Kenny's backroom team as a "resource for everyone" as the Ireland boss looks to offer more off-field support to his players.
Speaking to the media as the Irish squad assembled ahead of Wednesday's World Cup qualifier away to Serbia, Kenny confirmed that Forde, who is the current head of psychology at Crystal Palace, will offer mental health advice to the players.
Following on from social media abuse aimed at Shane Duffy and James McClean, the manager also highlighted similar abuse that Under-21 players Jonathan Afolabi and Tyreik Wright had to put it up with and the difficulties other players had in dealing with lockdown, particularly those on loan at clubs where facilities were out of bounds.
To that end, Kenny has now enlisted the assistance of Forde, who played under him at Derry City.
Outlining what role the Galwayman will have, the Ireland boss said: "David Forde is actually coming into camp with us for this week and the next couple of windows, joining the backroom team.
"He has a degree, a Masters degree and he has lectured on the Pro Licence in that area as well. He is there as a resource for the players over the next two camps.
"He'll be there in the camp, in the background, morning, noon and night. He’ll just be there as a resource for everyone. Obviously he has a degree in sports psychology and all of those things. He can help them."
In other news from the camp, the FAI confirmed that all players and staff tested negative for Covid-19 ahead of Wednesday's qualifier.
The round of testing took place on Sunday on arrival into camp in Manchester.
Follow Serbia v Republic of Ireland via our live blog on RTÉ.ie/sport and RTÉ News app, watch live on RTÉ2 and the RTÉ Player or listen to commentary on RTÉ 2fm's Game On.
