Bohemians assistant manager Stephen O'Donnell has been appointed assistant coach of the Republic of Ireland Under-21 team for their forthcoming European Championship qualifiers against Moldova and Kazakhstan.
The former St Pat’s and Dundalk boss will link up with Jim Crawford for the clash with Moldova in Tallaght on Thursday, as well as their game in Kazakhstan next Tuesday.
"It is a massive honour to be involved in an Ireland international set-up, so I was delighted to be asked by the manager, Jim Crawford, and I’m really looking forward to learning from Jim, and the likes of Paul McShane, as well as relishing the opportunity of working with the best young talent in the country," O’Donnell told the Bohs' website.
"I believe I have a lot to offer to the set-up from my own experience of managing and coaching in our league during which time I have helped players make the step up to senior football here at Bohs and previously at St Pat’s and Dundalk.
"I’m also grateful to Bohs for allowing this opportunity. The club sees the big pictures and values development opportunities for both players and coaches.
Ireland currently sit third in Group D with seven points from their first five games.
Benfica's Jaden Umeh, Shamrock Rovers' Adam Brennan, Malaga’s Aaron Ochoa-Moloney and Reading’s Sean Patton have received first call-ups for the double-header.
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